Chris Sutton’s instant two-word reaction as Celtic lose Auston Trusty appeal ahead of Rangers
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Credit: Imago / Getty Images Chris Sutton’s instant two-word reaction as Celtic lose Auston Trusty appeal ahead of Rangers Tue 24 February 2026 19:02, UK Martin O’Neill has yet more problems to navigate after the news of Auston Trusty’s suspension at Celtic Park.The USA international was sent off during a 2-1 defeat to Hibernian on Sunday, 22 February, given his marching orders for slapping his opponent’s arm at a set-piece situation.Referee Matthew McDermid’s decision has been heavily debated, with the majority leaning towards it being a very soft red card, but the Hoops can do very little about it now.Trusty will now have to serve a three-match ban for his actions, and with Cameron Carter-Vickers sidelined until the end of the season, O’Neill may need to get creative in the backline.Celtic also still have a Europa League clash against VfB Stuttgart, but after losing 4-1 in the round of 32 first leg, advancement to the next round is unlikely. All eyes should be on the Old Firm derby."That can't be a red card… it's a big call and an important call" 🗣️@jmcginn7 weighs in on Auston Trusty's sending off against Hibernian at the weekend 🟥Presented by @sbk | 18+ | Please Gamble Responsibly pic.twitter.com/zZem8WJhAv— Premier Sports (@PremSportsTV) February 24, 2026 View Tweet Read more: These are the leading candidates to replace Martin O’Neill at Celtic Park.
MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Chris Sutton delivers a simple response to Auston Trusty blowIn response to the crushing news about Trusty’s suspension, it is safe to say that Sutton was not entirely surprised by the result of the Hoops’ appeal.Taking to X on Tuesday, 24 February, the former player wrote, “Huge surprise…” and the centre-back will now be unavailable for the Old Firm derby, as well as two other games.Benjamin Arthur, 20, could be thrown into the lineup, having come on as a substitute against Hibs, but either way, the Hoops are at a disadvantage ahead of facing Rangers on Sunday, 1 March.It is not Trusty’s first red card since joining the Hoops, and nor is it likely to be his last, with sending-offs also during his time with Colorado Rapids and Philadelphia Union in the MLS.Read more: Ex-refs chief believes Celtic deserved a late penalty against Hibernian.Celtic’s European form could have disastrous impactsThe Scottish Premiership’s poor coefficient could see the sides thrown into the Europa Conference League for the 2027-28 season, but only if neither can win the Scottish Premiership or Scottish Cup next term.Of course, this would have a huge impact on the finances. For every one pound earned in the Champions League, you get about 22 pence in the Europa League and 11 pence in the Conference League.Scottish clubs are already struggling to attract bigger names due to the lack of money being spent, and having to battle in the Europa Conference League would only add to those issues.While advancing to the round of 16 in the Europa League this season appears unlikely, there is still a slim chance, and Trusty is likely to feature due to his ban only being in the domestic leagues.