The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Deila’s goal for Hoops is domestic treble
Parkhead boss also aiming for Champions League qualification as Euro campaign gets under way
Ronny Deila has targeted the “tough goals” of a domestic clean sweep and Champions League qualification for Celtic this season.
The Hoops host Icelandic side Stjarnan in the first leg of their opening Champions League qualifying tie at Parkhead tonight.
“The goals are the same as they were last year,” said the former Stromsgodset boss.
“We want to get into the Champions League, we want to win everything in Scotland.
“We want to improve the culture and the players individually and as a team so we can play exciting football.”
He added: “The most important thing is winning the league so we keep on being in Europe, but of course, if we can get into the Champions League, that is a very important goal for us.
“It (group stages) is a step forward. That is the first target. If we get in we can talk about the next step. But now it is all about the qualification and getting in.”
After a year in the job Deila is much more confident of taking on the task that lies ahead.
“When I came in I didn’t know anything about my team, almost,” he said.
“I didn’t know so much about my opponents, it was a new style, a new level — everything.
“We have played 12/14 games in Europe and those experiences will make me, the whole team and the whole club more prepared this time.
“So I am looking forward to a big challenge.”
Skipper Scott Brown believes Celtic are in good shape to make up for their Champions League failure last season.
“We have to try to push into the group stages,” said the Scotland captain.
“It was hard last season, we got a couple of chances but still didn’t make it so this season we need to try to put it right.
“Getting to the group stage for this club is where we should be.”