Charlie Nicholas has predicted Celtic to lose when they travel to Zenit St Petersburg on Thursday night and expects them to be dumped out of the Europa League.
The Bhoys put in a brilliant performance in the first leg at Parkhead to earn a 1-0 victory over the Russian side, with attacking midfielder Callum McGregor scoring the only game.
Brendan Rodgers’ side now travel to Russia for the reverse fixture and know how crucial an away goal could be.
The Scottish giants decided to rest several key players at the weekend ahead of the European showdown, but that resulted in a goalless draw at home to St Johnstone.
Celtic have struggled away in Europe during recent years and Sky Sports pundit Nicholas has tipped them t0 lose 3-1 when they visit Zenit.
“I have to admit Celtic’s defensive structure, which had been all over the place, looked excellent last weekend to go against my prediction that they’d lose the first leg,” Nicholas told Sky Sports.
“People might think us Scots are okay with the weather over there but the conditions are a different level of cold and I’m afraid I’m going for a tough night for the travellers and another Celtic defeat.”
OPINION
Celtic have put themselves in a great position in their Round of 32 tie with Zenit and an away goal could be enough to progress if they defend properly. The Bhoys will get a thorough test out in Russia, but showed enough in their home match to suggest they can be confident in possession and continue their European journey. Rodgers has been superb at domestic level with Celtic and his real test if to try help them make inroads on the European stage. Celtic will need several of their key players to come to the fore out in Zenit and midfield captain Scott Brown is likely to be vital in helping others deal with the hostile atmosphere.