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Auston Trusty talks Celtic chances of Champions League progression as he savours every moment

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Auston Trusty has been able to fulfil a lifelong dream of competing in the Champions League after his move to Celtic in the summer.

The United States international has emerged as Brendan Rodgers’ preferred partner for Cameron Carter-Vickers, making 16 appearances since his £6 million move from Sheffield United.

Despite having Premier League experience at the Blades and learning his trade in the early part of his career at Arsenal, the Champions League is a competition that has evaded him until now.

Celtic FC v Club Brugge KV - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD5
Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images

However, Auston Trusty announced himself at Celtic in their draw with Atalanta in mid-October, showcasing his dominant presence as a central defender to keep a clean sheet against last season’s Europa League winners.

As the Bhoys look to delve further into the competition, the 26-year-old has shared why he never takes these experiences for granted.

Auston Trusty on Celtic’s Champions League ambitions

Speaking ahead of Celtic’s trip to face Dinamo Zagreb, Trusty has made it clear that he is savouring every moment of being present at this level and shared why the Bhoys are mentally prepared to see qualification over the line.

He stated: “I’m enjoying it a lot, growing up in a small town outside Philadelphia, playing in the Champions League.

“It’s a dream come true, so every moment I get to play for this club in this competition, I don’t take it for granted.

On progression, he added: “I think it feels amazing, but we’re prepared mentally to achieve that. It’s already in our mindset; we just need to go out and do it ourselves.”

Celtic look to capitalise on Dinamo Zagreb misfortune

Dinamo Zagreb are without a win in five matches across all competitions and fell to a surprise 1-1 draw at home to Slaven Belupo last week, setting the scene for tonight’s encounter.

Nenad Bjelica is also without several first-team stars for the clash, making his job harder after calling up several youth players to bulk out the squad.

Hopefully, Celtic can take advantage of their predicament, but European ties are seldom easy to navigate.