Celtic’s Champions League participation in focus as Paul Hartley pinpoints cause for optimism

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Celtic take on Heart of Midlothian this weekend before their focus shifts to the Champions League next Wednesday.

Slovan Bratislava are first up in Glasgow’s east end as part of eight exciting ties in the new Swiss-style format – four at home and another quartet away from Scottish shores.

Borussia Dortmund, Atalanta and Aston Villa are among the glamour opponents in the league phase. Meanwhile, opportunities are there to get points on the board against the Slovak champions, Club Brugge Young Boys and Dinamo Zagreb.

There is a tangible excitement that wasn’t felt heading into last season’s edition of the competition. However, former Celtic striker Georgios Samaras has delivered a cautiously optimistic verdict on their chances of progression.

Now, his ex-teammate Paul Hartley has given his own take on how the Bhoys will cope with life at the top table. It is fair to say he is feeling a bit more upbeat than his counterpart.

Paul Hartley on why Celtic can be optimistic in Champions League

Speaking to PLZ Soccer, Hartley signalled his belief that Celtic have a ‘really good chance’ of competing in the Champions League this term, alongside claiming their squad depth will serve them well across all fronts.

Asked about Celtic’s aims, Hartley said: “I think to win some more games, that would obviously help them. I look at the group and I think they’ve got a really good chance.

“I think the first game, especially at home, if they can get off to a good start, then that’ll build confidence. The squad is much stronger than it was last season; he’s bought wisely. I think Brendan demanded that they brought good quality in, and I think that’s what they’ve got now.

“They’ll be able to juggle both Champions League and league (games) easily because of the size of the squad that they’ve got now.”

Undoubtedly, there is room for Celtic to feel optimistic in Europe’s premier competition. Despite some tricky opponents, the draw has been on the gentler side regarding potential heavyweights that could’ve been standing in their way.

Nevertheless, that doesn’t make it any easier, and Rodgers will need to produce some significant results to put the Bhoys in contention for a knockout berth.

For now, Hearts await this weekend, which will take precedence as Celtic seek to keep up their 100% domestic record this term.