Celtic face FK Suduva on Thursday night in the Europa League.
Paul Lambert has racked up the pressure on Celtic by telling BeIN Sports that Brendan Rodgers’ side cannot afford to be knocked out of Europe at this early stage.
The Hoops take on Lithuanian outfit FK Suduva in the second leg of their play-off tie, after they were knocked out of the Champions League qualifying stage by AEK Athens.
Celtic drew the first leg 1-1 in Lithuania, meaning they have a slight advantage thanks to Olivier Ntcham’s early goal which was expertly created by academy product Mikey Johnston.
Rodgers’ side have gone through a somewhat tumultuous start to the season but ahead of Sunday’s Old Firm derby at Parkhead, the former Liverpool boss will be desperate to generate momentum – but Lambert has intensified the pressure.
“Going out of the Champions League is a massive blow for them,” Lambert said. “The Europa League will still be a really good competition if they get through it, but they cannot afford to be knocked out of this one.
“If they lose this one, which I don’t think will happen, there will be incredible pressure on that side. The club needs European football without a shadow of a doubt.”
Odsonne Edouard and Jack Hendry have returned from injury and are available for selection, but Jozo Simunovic remains on the sidelines with an ankle problem. It remains to be seen whether Moussa Dembele will be included.
The French striker is reportedly close to a Celtic exit and he missed training on Wednesday in order to pursue a move, with Lyon interested. Rodgers has confirmed, though, that the Frenchman is available.
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