CELTIC has been drawn in a fantastic Champions League group that offers glamour, tough ties and the opportunity to get out of the group.
Real Madrid, Shakthar Donetsk and RB Leipzig will be the three teams standing in Celtic’s way of progression from the group or a Europa League spot beyond Christmas.
It’s been a while since the bhoys were last in the group stage. The last time around with Brendan Rodgers nobly saw the bhoys bag one win and crashing out bottom of the group.
Despite that, Glen Hoddle is tipping Celtic to cause some shock and even told the BT Panel live on air that he fancies Celtic to cause Madrid problems.
“They will genuinely be saying we can pip that.” Hoddle told BT Sport, as quoted by Football Scotland.
“They won’t be looking at perhaps winning the group, but I think they are capable. Even Madrid, they can beat. They can win the three home games.
“They’ve turned over other big clubs up there and when the atmosphere gets going there’s nothing like it so they’ll feel confident they can get out of the group and into the last 16.”
Bold predictions by Glen.
While we appreciate the pundit bugging us up. We suspect the former d manager hasn’t been paying attention to Celtic all too often. He’ll be harking back to the nights under O’Neill, Strachan and early days Lennon. We’ve struggled to make Parkhead a fortress in Europe like it used to be.
The challenge for Ange will be to bring it back up and make Parkhead a place to be feared rather than players coming and enjoying the atmosphere.
We await the fixture and schedule ahead of this one.
Glenn