Stuart Kettlewell explains why he’s wary of ‘exceptional’ Celtic ahead of Kilmarnock clash

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Kilmarnock face Celtic at Parkhead in what is a must-win game for Martin O’Neill’s side.

Celtic’s last fixture was a disappointing Europa League defeat as the Bhoys lost to FC Midtjylland 3-1 in Denmark.

Celtic have looked revived under O’Neill, but many have now questioned whether that enthusiasm has waned after the European midweek disappointment.

However, Kilmarnock boss Stuart Kettlewell is not fooled as he warns his players about the ‘exceptional’ side they are about to face at Celtic Park.

• READ MORE: The Green Brigade release damning email trail with Celtic in detailed response to Parkhead ban

Kilmarnock boss Stuart Kettlewell rejects notion that Celtic are ‘vulnerable’

Kettlewell has spoken of his respect for Celtic boss Martin O’Neill and now, he has warned his players not to underestimate the Northern Irishman’s side.

Kettlewell told the Sunday Mail, “I’ll always be clear of my full respect for what Celtic have done over a long period of time with their levels and success.

“When they lose a game of football, we all understand that it becomes a huge drama and everyone is dissecting why.

“I don’t think that they’re vulnerable, I think they’ve got exceptional, international footballers for our level. They’ve got really high value in the market and they’ve got guys who have been over the course and distance in being successful by winning trophies.

“When the chips are down, that’s generally when these guys fight back. So we have to be prepared for that.”

Celtic face Kilmarnock without the Green Brigade

The Green Brigade’s Celtic Park ban kicks in this afternoon against Kilmarnock as the Ultras group were disciplined by the club.

With this being the first of six games the Green Brigade will miss, it will be interesting to see how the Celtic Park crowd reacts this afternoon.

With the North Curve empty for such a crucial game, the Celtic supporters across the rest of the stadium will need to fill that void and make some noise for the Bhoys.