ERIK SVIATCHENKO says that Midtylland’s attack can exploit Celtic’s novice backline and shoot the Danes into the next round of Champions League qualifying.
The former Celtic defender has pinpointed Ange Postecoglou’s defence as the obvious weak point of the side, and feels that the more seasoned attackers at Midtjylland’s disposal can wreak havoc against their younger opponents.
“We are of course aware that Celtic have some young and very inexperienced players in their defence,” Sviatchenko said.
“In comparison, we think we have some offensive players with much more experience. So pressure must be put on Celtic's back four.
“Celtic still have players with high, individual quality, but we have good opportunities to hit them. Especially in their defence.
“Here we hope that our more experienced offensive players can get an upper hand and crack down on the Celtic team's mistakes.
“But we must also minimize our own mistakes. And avoid giving Celtic too many chances.”
Sviatchenko’s manager Bo Henriksen agreed with Sviatchenko’s assessment of the Celtic team, and believes that the Scottish side will be forced to go on the offensive in Herning as they can’t play any other way. That approach, he says, should play into the hosts’ hands, as they look to pick Celtic off on the counter.
“Like everyone else, we have also noticed the signs of weakness that Celtic clearly have in their defence at the moment,” Henriksen said. “We hope, believe and feel that we can take advantage of those problems tomorrow night.
“In Scotland, Celtic came up with what we expected, and that's how it will be tomorrow. It's probably just the goalkeeper position we are unsure about. But it does not matter. We feel well prepared no matter what.
“I do not think Celtic are capable of anything other than attacking, attacking and attacking. We must try to play ourselves out of their first pressure, because then there are many opportunities in their spaces and on the outside. But it’s still a 50/50 game.”
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