Former Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic has spoken to the Russian media ahead of Zenit St Petersburg’s Europa League clash with Celtic tonight.
Last week Brendan Rodger’s side beat the Russian club 1-0 thanks to a goal from Callum McGregor, which gives the SPL champions a slight advantage going into the second leg.
Speaking to Iz.Ru, the former Chelsea star was asked about Zenit’s prospects against Celtic: “I’m sure that we have the strength and ability to play better than in the first match. We will make every effort to do this. I think we should beat Celtic and go to the next round of the Europa League.”
Ivanovic supported his teammates from the stands at Celtic Park last Thursday, and the 33-year old will be hoping he’s passed fit to play against Rodgers’ side.
In recent years Celtic’s away record in Europe hasn’t matched the results they’ve got at Celtic Park, but beating Anderlecht in Belgium to secure their place in the Europa League should give them confidence.
Celtic will also have the advantage they’ve been playing regular competitive games in recent weeks, unlike Zenit who are still on their domestic winter break.
