‘Celtic will need to bring A game’

Brendan Rodgers is under no illusions as to the task his Celtic side face when Manchester City visit Parkhead tonight.

The Hoops were thrashed 7-0 by Barcelona in their Champions League Group C opener in the Nou Camp and match day two brings Pep Guardiola’s in-form side who have won their first 10 games in all competitions this season.

Rodgers, who confirmed that Craig Gordon would take over in goal from Dorus de Vries who is still not 100% after having to go off at half-time in the 6-1 win over Kilmarnock at the weekend, is excited about taking on the Premier League leaders.

However, he knows his players will need to work hard to reduce the disparity between the two sides.

“It is really exciting,” said the former Swansea and Liverpool boss.

“But Man City are a top team, everyone can see that clearly, they have that world-class ability, great individuals who are working hard.

“We know we have to bring our A game to have any chance and that is something hopefully we can do.

“The reality is if they bring their A game and we bring ours, they win.

“But we know we have to make it as uncomfortable as we can for them.

“As a coach and players these are the types of occasions and games that you look forward to and we look forward to it.

“We have a respect for their qualities and their game but we have to ensure we are super-committed into our way of working and we know we have players that can give them a problem.

“However, their the level of play has gone up since Pep has come in. The intensity has gone up and they are a team working with one idea.”

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers.