Under pressure Neil Lennon has sent a strong message ahead of Celtic’s Europa League Group Stage clash against AC Milan.
At a time when he needs to restore confidence for the players and the supporters, Lennon is almost bound to speak positively. AC Milan are though steadily returning to top form and their own confidence will be high having come out on top of their own local derby at the weekend, beating Inter Milan 2-1. Celtic have a much different memory of their derby weekend to overcome.
Lennon is quoted on the club site saying he is setting up his team aiming for a win and three points in their first Europa League game:
"“We’re up against a very good side who are reinvigorated, but it’s a team we can cause problems.“Being at home, you’re looking for a reaction, first and foremost, and a strong performance from the core of the players.“Any game of this quality that really whets the appetite is another huge challenge for them. It’s important that we endeavour to win our home games in the group to give ourselves a springboard for attempting to quality.”"
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It is an interesting factor though to consider whether there really is any significant advantage in a home game these days. The lack of fans and the 12th man principle seems less significant for Celtic and indeed many other teams. Results in European leagues and qualifiers have not always favoured the home sides, last nights 2-3 win over Real Madrid in Spain by significantly weakened Shaktar Donetsk side being the latest evidence.
Looking at the resurgent AC Milan team fresh after their derby win, Lennon recognised the strength of the Hoops opposition:
"“They have great young talent in the team, and with Ibrahimovic, they have great experience and quality.“They’ve made a fantastic start to their domestic season so we’re very excited about the game and all the ingredients that surround the build-up to the game. We’re also very much looking forward to the challenge that AC Milan will provide us.”"
Diego Laxalt also spoke yesterday about the team being well prepared for this match against his home club while on loan for Celtic and sounded very positive too. Lennon’s been making some clear points to his squad and they’ve been listening. The Hoops will still be missing some key players with Odsonne Edouard amongst others still ruled out. Hopefully those available can turn in a good performance on the pitch later.