Alistair Johnston has spoken ahead of Celtic’s home clash against Hibernian tomorrow and has cast his eye to their chances of progressing in the Champions League.
While their Scottish Premiership form has been almost impeccable with 13 victories and one draw, the Bhoys have also made their mark on the European scene after a series of impressive displays.
Standing above the rest, Celtic’s victory over RB Leipzig on matchday four sent a message that they are able to compete at Champions League level. Equally, their win at home to Slovan Bratislava and draws against Atalanta and Club Brugge have painted a picture of confidence.
With three league phase matches remaining, the Bhoys know they realistically only need one win to see themselves over the line.
Achieving a playoff would be a major sign of collective growth. Still, there is still work to be done, which Alistair Johnston ran the rule over earlier today before his side take on Hibernian.
Alistair Johnston on Celtic’s Champions League prospects
Speaking ahead of Celtic’s tussle with Hibernian in the Scottish Premiership, Johnston revealed that the dressing room are ‘really excited’ about what the next few months could have to offer in Europe’s premier competition.
He also touched on how the Champions League keeps the group motivated domestically, stating: “It’s definitely something we’d aspired to have and aimed to have going into this season based on what we had last year, that was one of our bih things that we wanted to take a massive step forward on was progress on the European side of things.
“And aside form that, we want to be doing into matches in the New Year in a competitive spot where we have a chance to qualify. We’re still in that position; it keeps all the guys, the whole squad, really excited for the rest of this couple of months.
“Also, it just provides a really good challenge. It reminds you that domestically, what you need to do to be playing in matches like that, you need to win the league, and potentially, that might not be enough next year.
“We’re going to have to go into some round of qualifiers no matter what place you finish. You know, it really kind of reminds you how important the league is to be dominant domestically so you can have the chance to play at Celtic Park on those Champions League nights and play in those massive matches.
“I think that’s something that this whole group has really taken to and embraced those kind of nights, it’s kind of gone hand in hand I’d say.”
Celtic taking their hefty schedule one game at a time
Next week is a defining one for Celtic, with a Champions League encounter away to Dinamo Zagreb followed by the Premier Sports Cup final against Rangers.
However, no game is bigger than the one that stands immediately before you. Hibernian may have endured a frustrating start to the campaign, but they will provide a stiff test off the back of an energy-sapping night in Aberdeen.
Squad depth is there for a reason, and most will expect Brendan Rodgers to shuffle his pack to combat burnout. Despite this, Johnston is likely to start amid his excellent form this season.
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