Griffiths itching for Champions League return

Leigh Griffiths is desperate to help Celtic qualify for the group stages of the Champions League again next season.

The Scotland international played a pivotal role as the Bhoys successfully negotiated the qualifying rounds of Europe’s premier club competition last season, scoring important goals in the
matches against Lincoln Red Imps, Astana and Hapoel Be’er Sheeva.

However, by the time the group stage of the competition came around, the 26-year-old found himself playing second fiddle to Moussa Dembele and he only made three substitute appearances at that stage of the competition.

The former Wolves man is now desperate to return to the group stages although he knows it will be easier said than done, as the Hoops will have to once again negotiate three qualifying rounds.

“Obviously our first priority is to make sure that we do our work in the qualifiers and get back into the group stages,” said Griffiths. “It is such a massive thing for everyone to be in there, playing against the very best teams. “It gives the supporters a lift and those nights were pretty special.

You watch the Champions League on TV, but to be a part of it was brilliant and it is something that we definitely want again.” Griffiths has never doubted his ability to play at the highest level and believes his goals in qualifying last season show he is capable of leading the line in the Champions League. He added:

“I have been questioned as to whether I could score at so many different levels; at Celtic when I first went there and then whether I could do it at Europa League level, Champions League level…. I have never doubted myself.”