Zheng sets sights on Euro action

08 December 2009 13:53
Zheng, signed after the registration deadline for the group stages of UEFA's new competition, will be a frustrated spectator again next week when the Hoops bow out of Europe with a trip to Rapid Vienna.[LNB]Celtic's failure to qualify from Group C has denied China captain Zheng, 29, the chance to play in the Europa League knockout phase.[LNB]He told Celtic View: "It was frustrating for me. I was signed too late and that meant I wasn't able to play in the Europa League.[LNB]"I was hoping we would qualify for the next round and I would be able to play, but we didn't manage that.[LNB]"That was a disappointment but we will just have to try to win the league and make sure we are in the Champions League next season. I would love to play in Europe with Celtic.[LNB]"The target for all the players is to win the league and do well in the Scottish Cup. We are disappointed to be out of Europe but we still have a big chance to make the season successful."[LNB]Zheng has been at Celtic for just over three months and has been delighted with the welcome he has received from everyone at the club.[LNB]The former Charlton star said: "I'm really enjoying my time at Celtic. It's such a big club and the stadium and training ground are really good.[LNB]"Celtic have many fans - not just in Scotland but all over the world.[LNB]"The manager, players and all the staff have been very welcoming. It's what I expected."[LNB]After a difficult October and November, Tony Mowbray's men have found their form in the last three games and will be looking for a fourth successive win at Motherwell on Saturday.[LNB]Zheng, who has been in and out of the side recently, said: "Playing for Celtic is not like any other club. There is a lot of pressure and you are expected to win every game.[LNB]"It's not always happened since I've been here. We are trying to get a run together just now and I'm confident that we're improving all the time. We are getting better.[LNB]"I think we are gaining a better understanding of each other.[LNB]"The players have helped me settle in and we are getting better at knowing what our own strengths are. I know what they can do and they know what I can do."[LNB][LNB] Motherwell v Celtic. Click here to bet.  

Source: Team_Talk