CELTIC coach and Donegal GAA manager Jim McGuinness is in Glasgow this evening for the club’s glamour last 16 Champions League clash with Juventus.
The Hoops are hoping to take a first leg lead against the Turin club.
McGuinness has been working with younger members of the Celtic squad in his role as a sports psychologist.
A host of Donegal GAA stars will also be at the game – which is live on TV3 from 7.30pm.
“There is a real belief anything can happen over two games,” said Neil Lennon today.
“We go into the tie as underdogs but nothing is going to be decided at the end of 90 minutes.”
Juventus currently top Italy’s Serie A and have a wealth of top players.
“They have excellent strikers – Mirko Vucinic, Fabio Quagliarella, Sebastian Giovinco – and they have also brought in Nicolas Anelka,” said Lennon.
“But the one who has caught my eye is Alessandro Matri. He looks an excellent young player. The team is blessed with fantastic footballers but we knew that before the tie or before any preparations were made.
“It would be dangerous to underestimate Celtic. We have proved already this season that we can be a match for anyone.”
Celtic reached the last 16 by finishing second in their group behind Barcelona, having beaten the Spanish giants at Parkhead.
“It is the only show around, a European night at Celtic Park,” said the manager.
“It will be a fantastic football arena – for me, one of the best atmospheres in world football, never mind European football – and it is for our supporters.
“Obviously, the players will play their part but to bring these nights back to the club is something that means a lot to me.
“Anyone who has experienced a Champions League night here before will know what I am referring to.”
Striker Georgios Samaras is battling a hamstring injury to feature against Juventus, while defender Efe Ambrose was in action for Nigeria on Sunday, helping them win the African Cup of Nations.
“We will see what condition he is in and if he is OK, we will have him in the squad,” Lennon said of Ambrose’s return to Glasgow.
“We will give Georgios as much time as he is needed. He has been doing pretty aggressive rehabilitation work and we are hopeful he will be okay.
“If not, then I have a very strong squad and we will have him fit for the second leg.”
Tags:
