Tierney backs Celtic to recover from stumble

GLASGOW: Kieran Tierney insists Celtic will return to winning ways when the Scottish Premiership leaders take on Motherwell at Fir Park today.

Ronny Deila’s side were held to a disappointing goalless draw by Dundee in midweek to give nearest rivals Aberdeen hope in the race for the title.

The Hoops now face a tough task against Motherwell, who have won their last five games, but Celtic defender Tierney thinks his team can bounce back and pick up three points in their quest for a fifth successive league title.

“They beat us the last time at Celtic Park so we will be looking to get back to winning ways against them,” Tierney said.

“They are playing well under Mark McGhee, have climbed the table and are pushing for a topsix place while we are pushing for the title so it will be hard game.

“But we have confidence and we are all motivated to do well.”

Teenager Tierney thinks Celtic can cope with the pressure that comes from the Dons’ challenge.

“It is in our hands. We need to get our heads back and go and beat Motherwell on Saturday. That is our focus,” he added.

“Every game between now and the end of the season is going to be tough. We need to battle it out, go and play football and get the points.”

Celtic could have a new-look defence for the trip to Fir Park after Erik Sviatchenko picked up a thigh knock and Mikael Lustig felt a tightness in his Achilles during the draw at Dens Park.

Motherwell’s excellent recent form has seen the Lanarkshire side climb up the league table to fourth spot, but manager McGhee is worried their position in the top six could be lost if they lose to Celtic.

Rivals St Johnstone, Dundee and Partick Thistle could leapfrog Motherwell on the final weekend before the league splits in two if they claim wins in their respective matches.

However, a point for Motherwell in their match against Celtic will take them out of reach of the chasing pack.

“I think if we don’t take anything on Saturday, we’re in trouble,” McGhee said.

“You can’t trust anybody in this league. Everyone is capable of taking points off everyone else.

“The mentality of the other three teams is good enough that they’re all capable of getting wins.”

Elsewhere today, bottom club Dundee, who are five points adrift of Kilmarnock at the foot of the table, host Inverness Caledonian Thistle, while Killie, who are on an 11-game winless run, take on St Johnstone. — AFP