Post by Taxigirl on Nov 25, 2003 10:13:19 GMT
Celtic's Martin O'Neill claims his squad fear nobody in Europe.
Victory for The Bhoys against Bayern Munich at Parkhead on Tuesday would guarantee their place in the second phase and O'Neill is in confident mood.
"A couple of seasons ago we would have gone into the European game not as strong or equipped as we are now," stated the Irishman.
"Three years ago we had to qualify for the early stages of the Uefa Cup and we had trepidation about playing anybody in Europe.
"I thought we were a bit unlucky against Bordeaux - but the side has definitely improved.
"We're not as fearful of playing the top-class sides any more.
"We have a healthy respect - because these teams can turn you over - but after the Uefa Cup run, the players would tell you there isn't a game they don't think they can win.
"Otherwise, we would never have bothered turning up at Liverpool."
Despite his confidence, O'Neill is shocked at how well his side have coped.
"The team has surprised me," he said.
"There was an air of despondency around the club - mainly from the supporters - because we were unable to strengthen the squad in the transfer market.
"It seemed that European aspirations would have to be limited.
"But the side has performed so well this season that they've given us all a bit of hope.
"I think the driving motivation for everyone at the club is to be in Europe after Christmas.
"If we can win, we know we're guaranteed to do just that.
"But I think we all felt at the start that Bayern would be the big side in the group and we'd all be vying for second place - and it may still turn out that way."