Celtic’s draw against Sparta Prague, AC Milan and Lille in the Europa League today could be framed as exceptionally difficult.
Indeed, as a pot one team, many expected the Bhoys to be given a far kinder set of fixtures.
However, for me, it’s simply an exciting opportunity for the Scottish champions to test themselves.
Despite some ropey performances at the start of the season, European qualifying included, we should have no fear facing off against the Italians, the French or the Czechs.
Last season’s campaign is surely proof enough we can mix it well with big teams from the continent.
It should be noted that both Milan and Lille finished behind Lazio and Rennes in their respective leagues in 2019/20.
The effort will have to be huge to repeat a six-point mauling of a Serie A side, but Celtic are more than capable of earning a qualifying points total in Group H.
With six matchdays between late October and early December, the schedule is as tough as the opponents, but Scott Brown and company have enough experience to navigate that too.
Fans likely won’t be in place to watch any of our home matches but I’m still anticipating an entertaining Europa League jaunt under Neil Lennon.
These supporters think similarly, taking to Twitter today to share their thoughts on the draw…
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