Europa League

John Collins eyes English draw for Celtic in Europa League

By Joe Fish, Reporter | 10 December 2014

Celtic number two John Collins thinks that Liverpool dropping into the Europa League is "great" for the competition and would relish facing an English side in the last 32.

Celtic assistant manager John Collins is excited by the prospect of drawing an English opponent in the knockout stages of the Europa League.

Liverpool's 1-1 draw with Basel last night ensured that they would drop into the hat for the last 32 of the competition, alongside Everton and Tottenham Hotspur.

Manchester City too could join them, depending on tonight's Champions League results, and Collins would relish the opportunity for the Scottish champions to test themselves against Premier League opposition.

"There's quite a few English teams in it already, so it would maybe be nice to meet them further down the line," he told reporters.

"Obviously we would like an easy draw if there is such a thing at this stage. But, at the same time, it would be great for the club and the players to test ourselves against a big English team.

"Obviously we watched last night and Liverpool dropped down into the Europa League, so that's great. I think it enhances the tournament when the big boys drop in - it gets really exciting."

Celtic have already qualified for the knockout stages, as Group D runners-up to Red Bull Salzburg.