Craig: We will keep attacking

CELTIC only need to avoid defeat by three clear goals against Anderlecht in the group’s final matchday to book Europa League after Christmas but the veteran goalkeeper insists that Celtic will continue to throw caution to the wind.

The Scotland goalkeeper reckons going out to try to win the game on the night – a result which would also maximise Celtic’s Champions League prize money – is the best way to approach the match.

“We’ll try to win the game,” said Gordon. “It’s at home and we know what we have to do. It’s vital we put on a performance like the last home game and if we do that it will give us the opportunity to win the game.”

In the likely event that Celtic secure third spot, hopes are high of an extended run in the continent’s second competition but Gordon insists Europa League opposition cannot be taken lightly.

“There will still be some excellent teams in the Europa League,” he said. “But if we put ourselves in the position to still be in Europe after the New Year then it will be a job well done from this group.”

First things first, though, is this Sunday’s Betfred Cup final against Motherwell. You might think an away trip and demoralising result against the French outfit isn’t the ideal preparation but Gordon feels, if anything, it will work in Celtic’s favour.

“Will it affect us for the final?” he asked. “No. Not at all. If anything it will be a positive for Sunday. It’s a cup final and there’s no point going over Wednesday too much.”