Elyounoussi keen to have fans back for Euro nights
MOHAMED Elyounoussi is hoping at least some Celtic fans get to see their exciting Europa League group games.
The Parkhead side’s 1- 0 play- off win over Sarajevo in Bosnia on Thursday night was deserved and it took them into the group stage where they have been drawn in Group H along with Sparta Prague, AC Milan and Lille.
The Covid- 19 crisis has enforced games to be played behind closed doors this season but the Norway forward is hoping some supporters may be allowed back inside the grounds.
He told Celtic’s official Twitter account: “It looks like a strong group. We wanted at least one big team, we got two, Lille is a good team as well.
“I am happy with the draw. We had a good European season last season and hopefully we can do the same this year and hopefully we can get some of the fans on European nights at Celtic Park, for the atmosphere, that would be brilliant.
“So hopefully we can get some of the fans back. Some of the boys haven’t experienced that here, I hope they can experience it as well. Without fans, we play without the emotions and atmosphere.”
Defender Hatem Abd Elhamed, recalling that Celtic reached the last- 32 of the Europa League last season before being knocked out by Copenhagen, echoed the sentiments of his team- mate.
The Israel internationalist said: “Celtic supporters are very important for us, they push us and give us a lot of energy during the game. I remember last season against Lazio and Cluj and it was an amazing atmosphere. I don’t know the situation now but I hope so, we need them.”