The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Hartley heaps praise on ‘outstanding’ Celtic
Dark Blues boss relishing challenge of facing his former side
Dundee boss Paul Hartley left Celtic Park as impressed as everyone else after watching Celtic’s dramatic draw with Manchester City.
Hartley joined Rod Stewart, Noel Gallagher and almost 60,000 others inside Parkhead on Wednesday night as the Hoops did themselves and Scottish football proud in what was a Champions League classic.
The 3-3 result ended Man City’s 10-match winning streak under new coach Pep Guardiola and saw Celtic take the match to their illustrious visitors in a way that seemed to catch the City slickers by surprise.
As the manager who is next up to face Brendan Rodgers’ boys, Hartley could have been excused watching some of the high-tempo action through his fingers.
However, he insisted his players are relishing what will be a considerable challenge at Dens Park tomorrow lunchtime.
Asked what he thought about the magnificent match that has had everyone talking, Hartley replied: “I enjoyed it.
“It was an outstanding game of football. I thought Celtic were terrific to play the way they did against a side like Man City.
“It was all about how they wanted to press them and, to be fair, not many teams have done that to City this season.
“That was their intention right from the off and Celtic did it high up the pitch, and had energy levels to go with it as well.
“They gave it everything and had a go, forcing City into making mistakes.
“So we are about to play an outstanding team – no doubt about that. Even if they do make four or five changes, which I think they will do, the players who will come in will be quality all over the pitch.
“We have to go and show on Saturday that we can make things difficult for them. We are pitting our wits against a very good team but I think you have to look forward to the challenge and we are.”
Meanwhile, Utilita Energy is the new official energy partner of the Dark Blues and for every Dundee fan who switches to that company the club will receive £25 towards its youth development programme.
Also, every supporter can also receive a free smart meter and Dundee-branded cover for their in-home display.
I thought Celtic were terrific to play the way they did against a side like Man City. PAUL HARTLEY