Collins not taking Malmo lightly

After a narrow 1-0 win in Glasgow, Celtic – who play Partick in the Premiership on Sunday – had to see out a goalless draw on Wednesday to advance by a small margin.

Celtic have been drawn against Malmo in the draw for the Champions League play-off round.

The Norwegian has explained that he and his players are extremely grateful for the support they receive on their travels and it Parkhead, as he highlights the benefits that the fans create for his team.

Except, that is, in scoring goals and keeping clean sheets, as was demonstrated when Neil Lennon’s side also won the return leg 2-0.

A short flight across the North Sea, congenial weather and a strong chance of progress to the group stage of the Champions League – plus points welcomed equally by Celtic and Malmo after they were paired in yesterday’s tournament play-off draw. We respect every team we play against and have the exact same preparation.

“But we knew what to expect and we prepared very well”. But, again, if we don’t play well and switch off at this level then you can see goals.

“So far the boys have been fantastic, switched on”. We have been working on that on the training pitch to make sure that when we lose the ball we get nice and tight and the midfield stay close to the back four, the wingers tuck in and the centre-forward drops.

Malmo sit sixth in the Swedish table after winning only once in their last six Allsvenska games, but Collins feels their focus will have been on the European stage.

Nir Bitton claims an “amazing” team performance by Celtic against Qarabag typified a spirit which has taken them to within touching distance of the Champions League.

“Happy with it”, he said. There’s no easy games at this stage but it’s not too far a journey and we have one Swedish player in the team so he will give us the low-down on them. It takes its toll. It’s still early in the season but the way the manager wants us to play is coming together and we are showing signs of improvement each day. “Touch wood, once we qualify then things will be a bit more relaxed – less tension and more joy and happiness”.