Celtic gave a great account of themselves in the Europa League despite being drawn in the same group with Bayer Leverkusen, Real Betis and Ferencvaros. Ange Postecoglou’s side managed to win three of their six games, but ultimately, it was not enough for them to go through to the next round. Instead, they will now play in the UEFA Europa Conference League knockout round play-off against Bodo/Glimt.
The Norwegian champions have impressed in Europe themselves and hold an incredible 6-1 win over Jose Mourinho’s AS Roma. Thus, it is safe to say that it is not an easy tie for Celtic by any stretch of the imagination.
Bodo/Glimt have recently lost one of their standout players though in the form of Patrick Berg, who joined Lens. And now, it looks like they are set to lose another one.
As tweeted out by Fabrizio Romano, Erik Botheim is set to join FK Krasnodar. It appears that personal terms have been agreed and just final details are to be discussed between the clubs.
Bodo/Glimt handed another massive blow before Celtic tie
Botheim has been brilliant for Bodo/Glimt in recent times. According to stats from Transfermarkt, he has scored 22 goals and provided 10 assists in 46 appearances for the Norwegian club.
Thus, it goes without saying that him leaving is a major blow for Bodo/Glimt but at the same time, it is a boost for Celtic.
There is still a long way to go before the two sides meet in the UEFA Europa Conference League though, with both their games set to be played in February of next year. Thus, it is safe to say that a lot could happen by then and a lot could change.
Celtic themselves are expected to increase their squad depth, having been linked with moves for several players in the January transfer window.