Frutos expects classy struggle
CELTIC were last night paid what can probably be taken as a backhanded compliment after Anderlecht’s coach Nicolas Frutos described them as “not a typical Scottish team”.
Given the reputation our game has on the continent, Brendan Rodgers should accept this as high praise.
Frutos, who has been put in temporary charge of the Belgian champions, expects a technical game this evening in Brussels rather than a kicking match, which of course he is right to.
“Celtic is not a typical Scottish team,” he said. “It’s a good mixture between physical and technical play. The players who impressed me were Patrick Roberts and Scott Brown, the captain.
“I am confident. I’ve got a better feeling more than before our two last games. Now, I see more smiles in the dressing room. For this game, my players won’t have to be motivated.
“We will try to play our game but instead of talking about it now, I prefer to show it tomorrow on the pitch.
“Of course we are favourites because we are at home. If Celtic were at home in Glasgow they would be the favourites. Both teams know they can get points in this game, though.
“They have a good mix of experienced players and have speed up front. They play a modern type of game with physical force and organisation at the back. They will work hard and so will we.
“We know this game and the one in Glasgow will be key to deciding who finishes third. But we also know that the Champions League involves six finals and we have to perform to our best in each of them.”