Celtic manager Neil Lennon is hoping his side will thrive in the do-or-die scenario they face in Thursday's Europa League Group against Udinese. Celtic can progress to the knockout stage if they win and close the three point gap on their hosts thanks to their head-to-head record.
At today's press conference in Italy, Lennon said: "I'd much rather we were already through. It is a daunting proposition for any team to come here but in that respect we know what we have to do. We are in good form, off the back of six wins in the league and confidence is good. Each of the Europa games there has been a natural progression, it is a young team who are learning all the time and we will treat it like a cup final. It is a great incentive and one that we are all looking forward to."
Defender Glenn Loovens is still in Glasgow after picking up a hamstring injury against Hearts on Saturday. However, Lennon remains confident he has the strength in depth to cope with his unavailability. He said: "Kris Commons, Mark Wilson, Adam Matthews and Joe Ledley are all out of the squad. It is a blow to us (to lose Glenn), he has been playing very well.
It is two steps forward and one back. Kelvin Wilson is fit and will be in contention, we also have options with Charlie Mulgrew and Victor Wanyama, so we are all right for cover."
Source: FOOTYMAD
