Focused Filip only has win thing in mind
FILIP BENKOVIC insists Celtic will be going out to smash Salzburg – and make it a Euro night to remember under the Parkhead lights.
The Hoops only need a point against the Red Bullbacked big guns to secure a Europa League knockout clash after Christmas.
But solid centre-back Benkovic has dismissed any suggestions Celts will try to play for a draw.
The Leicester loan star lapped up the eclectic atmosphere in the stunning win over Leipzig last month that fired their campaign back to life.
And he is convinced the champions can crank the noise to another level by going after the Austrian heavy hitters.
Benkovic said: “It was a very important win for us against Rosenborg in Norway last month as it’s given us the opportunity to get in to the next round.
“We’re looking forward to this game. We need one more point to qualify but the worst thing you can do is go into a game looking for a draw.
“It’s not a good approach. We will play for a win – just like we always do. Hopefully it will get us into the knockout stage.
“The last European game at Celtic Park was amazing. This one could be just as good, if not better because it is so important.
“We will be giving 110 BY MICHAEL GANNON per cent and going for the win to make it a big night.”
Benkovic admitted Celtic could not be in better form going into the clash – while Salzburg have already banked their berth in the last 32 after five straight victories in the group.
The Hoops have hit top form as they soared to the summit in the Premiership on the back of Saturday’s 5-1 clobbering of Kilmarnock.
Benkovic insisted the team are firing on all cylinders but are determined to hit new heights against Salzburg.
He said: “Everyone in this team plays for each other. The defenders look out for each other but the midfielders play for the defenders and the strikers play for the midfielders. We are all together and our results have come from that togetherness.”
Benkovic is relishing his season-long loan spell at Parkhead.
Foxes boss Claude Puel has given his guarantee he won’t recall the Croatia cap in January – and it was music to the ears of the 21-year-old as he eyes more success in Scotland.
Benkovic said: “It was good to hear these words from the Leicester boss.
“The most important thing is to play each week. In my time here I will give everything I have.”