Celtic boss Ronny Deila believes his side will qualify for the group stage of the Champions League if they can play to their potential in this month’s two games against Malmo.
The Scottish champions face the Swedish side in Glasgow in the first leg of their play-off encounter as Deila’s side attempt to return to the group stage of the competition after missing out a year ago.
Celtic have already won qualifiers against the Icelandic side Stjarnan and Qarabag of Azerbaijan to reach this stage, while Malmo edged to a 3-2 aggregate victory against Salzburg in their third qualifying round encounter.
Celtic are 1.67 to win the first leg at Parkhead on Wednesday, while a draw is available at 3.80 and Malmo can be backed at 5.50 to triumph.
“We want to be in the Champions League. That’s the goal, I’ve said that since coming to this club,” said Deila.
“Now we have two games to reach it. The most important thing is to win and get a good result.
“We just have to be the best we can be and, if we do that and don’t succeed, then we’re not good enough. But I think that if we are at our best, it’s going to be tough for Malmo.”
New signing Scot Allan could make his Celtic debut against Malmo, while Kris Commons is available after recovering from a dead leg.
Striker Nadir Ciftci is serving a domestic ban but he is available for selection in Europe.
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