Celtic have drawn Zenit St. Petersburg in the last 32 of the Europa League.
Charlie Nicholas has claimed in his Daily Express column that Celtic must “get rid” of the European nerves if they are to progress into the next round of the Europa League, leaving Zenit St. Petersburg behind.
Brendan Rodgers’ side drew Roberto Mancini’s Russian giants after finishing third in Group B of the Champions League, behind Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich but ahead of Anderlecht.
It saw Celtic qualify for the lesser competition, but instead of facing lesser teams such as FK Ostersund, Ludogorets or FC Astana, the Hoops have been drawn against a side that they will do well to beat in Zenit.
Former Celtic ace Nicholas believes the Hoops are less confident in Europe than they are in other competition and has urged Rodgers’ side to rid themselves of such self-doubt in order to progress.
“Celtic have landed a quality match in the last 32 of the Europa League,” Nicholas said. “Zenit might not have the household names, but they are a class act and are a formidable side as they showed in winning their group.
“There’s added spice to the tie with Roberto Mancini in charge of the Russians. He’s a thinking man’s coach. It would be a feather in Brendan Rodgers’ cap if his team can get through this one.
“St Petersburg will be a great trip for the fans, but Celtic need to get rid of their European nerves if they are to stand any chance.”
Zenit boast talent such as former Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic, Dom Criscito and Aleksandr Kokorin, and will prove a huge test for the Hoops with the Russians’ budget significantly larger than Celtic’s money pot.
The Hoops’ focus remains on the Scottish Premiership this weekend, as they face Hearts on Sunday lunchtime as they look to increase their lead at the top of the table.
Nicholas, 55, played for Celtic during two periods, between 1980 and 1983 before returning in 1990 for another five years.
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