Celts want to bow out in style
CELTIC’S League Cup Final hero James Forrest is hoping to help the Hoops sign off from Europe in style at the Etihad on Tuesday.
Brendan Rodgers’ side complete their Champions League group campaign with an away day against Manchester City.
Regrets, they have a few, principally that they were unable to qualify for the consolation prize of a parachute into the Europa League.
“I think overall it has been good,” said Forrest, who grabbed the crucial second goal in the 3-0 cup final win over Aberdeen.
“Apart from Barcelona away and maybe Borussia at home, we’ve put in some good performances in Europe this season.
“The memory of those displays will stay with us and we can take confidence into the qualifiers, and hopefully the groups again, next year.
“I say the groups because, for me, it is definitely the level Celtic belong at.
“Most of our players are internationals, we’re used to playing at the highest level for our countries and now in the Champions League.
“We have reached the last-16 before so we know it is achievable and we are looking to take what we’ve learned this year on into next year.
“It’s exciting playing at top grounds across Europe, it’s what you want to do. Playing at the highest level you can, playing the big teams – that’s how you get better and learn more about the game. This trip to the Etihad will be another one of those big occasions.
“We know we are out after Tuesday and there is nothing we can do about that.
“At the same time, the manager will want us to finish in style with a good performance and it is up to us to try and deliver it.”
In Forrest’s case, a repeat of his showing at Hampden last Sunday or, indeed, in the most recent Champions League tie, the loss to Barcelona at Celtic Park, would do just fine.
“Everything about the final was class. I’m definitely feeling good, we’ve played a lot of games, a lot of big games, and I’m feeling good. I just want to keep going,” he said.