Warning that huge step up in class awaits
RONNY DEILA last night warned his Celtic stars that Legia Warsaw will be a huge step up in class from KR Reykavic.
The Scottish champions travel to the Polish capital this week for the first leg of their Champions League third round qualifier.
See off Legia over two games and they will be guaranteed European football until Christmas and a cash windfall of at least £5m and potentially £16m.
Just reaching the play-off stages of the continent’s most prestigious club competition would be an achievement for the new Celtic boss but he insists it will be tough.
“It is going to be a step up because Legia are much stronger than KR Reykjavic,” he said.
“They are a good organised team and they have a lot of experience.
“But they have said we are favourites – if they want to do that it is OK with me.
“As a club, they have put a lot of money into getting into the Champions League. I know how important it is for them.
“But it is for us as well. Celtic are a big club and we want to be favourites in every game.
“So, overall, I think it is good draw. There are going to be two exciting games and we have a good chance. We will go to the match on Wednesday and do our thing to get through to the next round.”
The tie will see Deila reunited with his former Lillestrom coach Henning Berg, now boss of Legia.
“Henning is a good guy we have known each other for a long time,” he said.
Deila had a mild rebuke for Tony Watt who tried to take the penalty his side were awarded late on.
Bahrudin Atajic won the argument but missed the kick, blasting high over the crossbar.
“I told Tony he was involved in the miss because Bahrudin lost his concentration when he had to run after the ball,” said the Norwegian.
“Players have to follow instructions. Bahrudin was our penaltytaker, although maybe Tony didn’t know. But I like that he wants to score goals.”