KR Reykjavik manager Runar Kristinsson has admitted his team are not fully prepared for the upcoming visit to Glasgow to face Celtic, The Scottish Sun reports.
As we discussed earlier, the 2019 Icelandic champions were beaten at home yesterday upon their return to league action.
Football in the country had to take an enforced three-week break prior to the Friday fixture following coronavirus concerns.
Matches had been taking place throughout June and July.
The 2-1 defeat to FH Hafnarfjaroar has also ensured two of their key players, defender Kristinn Jonsson and attacker Kristjan Floka Finnbogason, are struggling with injury ahead of Tuesday evening’s clash.
Kristinsson is concerned.
As quoted by The Scottish Sun, he said of his team: “You could see we were not sharp, we lacked any kind of rhythm and that’s why it was extremely important to get a game under our belts before we play Celtic.
“They’ve made it very difficult to get into shape too with the regulations about training. There is no contact allowed and there is also a two metre rule, so we are not training properly either.
“Also, it’s very disappointing to lose two players before such a big game. We will have to assess both players to see if they are okay.”
Celtic had already been heavy favourites for the fixture but given Neil Lennon’s team are able to take part in full training and have few injury concerns, there are really have no excuses when it comes to progressing through the first qualifying round.
The one-legged tie carries risk considering the unusual knockout nature but we should have more than enough to see off our visitors.
The team need to be sharp from kick-off and pose more threat than against Kilmarnock, but it’s a chance for the Bhoys to send a real statement to supporters following a dramatic week on and off the pitch.
No hiccups please Celtic.
In other news, it’s been confirmed that winger Marian Shved has left Celtic on loan.
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