Frank McAvennie has criticised the Green Brigade’s decision to boycott Celtic’s Europa League matches, arguing that their absence will work against the team.

The former Hoops striker has taken a different stance from Chris Sutton, who backed the supporters’ right to take action over their frustration with the club’s direction.

The Green Brigade announced their withdrawal from European and Scottish Cup matches after criticising Celtic’s management, while the Celtic Fans Collective has confirmed its Not Another Penny campaign remains ongoing.

For more, catch up on the latest Celtic news.

The dispute forms part of the backdrop to Thursday’s meeting with Celta Vigo, with Celtic badly needing their first Europa League points.

McAvennie believes the occasion should bring supporters behind the players.

“I think it’ll be good. Listen, it’s Europe. This is what they play all year for. People forget about it. It’s, ‘We don’t need it.’ We do need it. That’s what players want, to play in Europe.

“Whoever gets out there on Thursday night is going to be up for it, I think. And the rest of the fans will be up for it if the Green Brigade go as well. I think it’s wrong that they’re doing it because it’s not the right way, because it’s going against the team.”

Sutton argued that the boycott was an understandable response from fans who feel ignored, insisting Sunday’s seven-goal win over Hearts did not resolve the wider concerns.

McAvennie, however, believes withdrawing the backing associated with European nights at Parkhead risks affecting the players.

“Everyone keeps raving about the atmosphere, and this Green Brigade keep talking about it, the best atmosphere in club football and all that. People rave about it. You can’t do that [boycott] because it’s going against the team.”

Tickets remain available for Thursday’s match, although the boycott alone cannot explain the unsold seats. Some other fans on the Home Cup Ticket Scheme may not be attending this one.

On the pitch, Martin O’Neill’s side need to build on their performance against Hearts after losing their opening two European fixtures.

The manager will hope those inside Celtic Park can help his players produce the result needed to get their campaign moving.