De Vries was back to his best as Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic side took a first leg lead against the Russian side.
Some Celtic fans had expressed concerns about Dorus de Vries ahead of Thursday’s Europa League tie against Zenit St Petersburg.
The Dutchman has spent much of his Celtic career as Craig Gordon’s understudy, and shipped seven goals in his last European outing – albeit against the might of Barcelona.
His performance against Zenit, however, could be enough to alter those perceptions going forward.
As well as a handful of saves to keep out the Russian giants, De Vries impressed with his decision-making and distribution.
Here’s what Celtic supporters are saying about the 27-year-old’s display…
De Vries’ exploits were crucial to keeping Celtic in the game, and the Bhoys were eventually rewarded when Callum McGregor scored the game’s only goal in the 78th minute.
The homegrown midfielder controlled Charly Musonda’s exquisite cross on his chest before side-footing a half-volley into the far corner of the Zenit goal, following a swift breakaway involving Musonda and Moussa Dembele.
Brendan Rodgers’ side travel to St Petersburg next Thursday for the tie’s second leg.
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