OneofEngland’s biggunswould suit Davies fine
Watford-born Chris Davies is hoping the Europa League hands Celtic another couple of big nights against top English opposition. The 33-year-old had only been in place as assistant to Brendan Rodgers for three months when the Hoops shared a terrific 3-3 draw with Manchester City in the Champions League. And while Pep Guardiola’s men won’t be heading back to Celtic Park, Arsenal, Chelsea and Burnley are all possible future opponents if they can justify favouritism in the play-off tie against Sudova, the first leg of which takes place in Lithuania on Thursday night. “Of course we would fancy playing one of the English clubs,” said Davies. “Arsenal and Chelsea are two big names, and a night against one of them would generate a fantastic atmosphere. “We played Manchester City a couple of years ago and didn’t lose, including one of those famous nights at home. “That is the sort of challenge we would embrace. But at the same time, this isn’t a consolation. “We all acknowledge that, having been in the Champions League two years in a row, that it is disappointing not to be in there. “But we are now in a competition which does have some prestigious clubs. There are some seriously good teams involved, so we will have big challenges.” Providing, of course, the Hoops manage to take care of the 2018 version of a club they beat 10-1 on aggregate on the road to the 2003 UEFA Cup final. “We are not at the group stage yet. We still need to qualify through the play-off starting from the away leg on Thursday,” said Davies. “We still have a job to do. Sudova have had some big results in the last couple of years. “I have watched them to gauge their level, and they are a team with a big striker who can be a danger. They have a bit of physicality. “But, of course, if we play to our level, we’re confident of beating them over two legs and going through. But we can’t be complacent.” For winger James Forrest, the tie will rekindle memories of watching Celtic as a 12-year-old. “The Seville run was unbelievable,” he said. “That team was one of the best Celtic sides we have ever had. “The teams they faced were so difficult. The wins against Blackburn and Liverpool stick out because of the performances and the goals scored. “It is only now you realise how big an achievement it was. “We can’t compare ourselves to that team.”