Hartley sure Celtic can make mark

Celtic have been backed to respond from their loss at 
St Johnstone and make a strong start to their Champions League campaign.

Neil Lennon’s men lost 2-1 in Perth in the Clydesdale Bank Premier League on Saturday and host Benfica tomorrow night in their first match of Group G, which also features Barcelona and Spartak 
Moscow.

Speaking at a Tesco Bank Football Challenge event at Hampden Park, former Celtic midfielder Paul Hartley said: “Celtic are coming off the back of a bad result against St Johnstone.

“They will forget about that and make sure they’re ready for tomorrow.

“It will be an important game for Celtic. If you can have a strong home performance then hopefully it will stand you in good stead.

“It’s a difficult group. There are quality teams there, 
but Celtic are in there on 
merit.

“They’ve shown they can go away from home now and win in Europe.

“It will be a great atmosphere. Champions League nights 
are always special and I’m 
sure Neil will have his team ready.

“Hopefully they can get a good result on Wednesday, get on the board with a good three points and take it from there,” added the Alloa Athletic 
manager.