HIT EURO PEAK NOW
From Back Page the level we played in the first game we can be a match for any team.
“Of course there will always be an expectancy on the other team because of their standing and probably the quality they have.
“We were near perfect in the first game. I’m hoping if we play to that level again over here then we’ve got a great opportunity to go through.
“We played and concentrated very well. When we do that we can match a lot of teams.
“In a lot of the away games in Europe, if you take out the real superpowers we’ve faced, then we’ve generally played pretty well.
“It’s important you stay calm. No matter how it goes we are always going to be in the game.
“When the group are together and focused we are playing well. It gives us a great chance but we respect it’s a tough game.”
Rodgers reiterated the importance of his men staying focused defensively tonight.
A clean sheet would see the Hoops through but the gaffer has no intention of ditching his attack-minded tactics in the 67,000 soldout Krestovsky Stadium.
Rodgers said: “We want to score. Our idea is to win the game. If we can’t win it, okay, try not to lose it. That’s key. We believe we can score.
“It’s important we keep our concentration. You see it at all levels.
“You saw the Chelsea game on Tuesday. Chelsea were outstanding in their defensive organisation. It only takes one mistake at that level and players punish you.
“Last week we never had that. We just had one moment where they got down the side and crossed it. Dorus de Vries made a good save. Apart from that we defended well.
“If we can do that and attack well alongside that we believe we will score.”
Celtic haven’t lost in their last three visits to Russia and, if they can get through, it’ll be a first post-Christmas aggregate win in Europe since 2004.
But Rodgers said: “I’ve never really thought about that. It’s more for the club and supporters.
“I’ve shown in my time here I want to leave a legacy where we can continually improve.
“We have done that this year and this would be another big step, given the level of competition.
“I see the team grow and develop and improve. Okay, some of the numbers maybe don’t match last term but that was a historical season.
“There are still lots of great positives this year. If we can make that next step here, that’s brilliant for us, and we can then focus on a last-16 tie.”