Gary Caldwell insists that Celtic will do everything possible to bridge the gulf in class between themselves and Manchester United
Scottish champions determined to protect proud home record
Gary Caldwell insists that Celtic will do everything possible to bridge the gulf in class between themselves and Manchester United when they meet again in the UEFA Champions League.
Celtic were thumped 3-0 at Old Trafford on Tuesday night and face the European champions again in a fortnight.
Caldwell said: "What happened last night should not affect us when we play United at Parkhead in two weeks.
"Better teams than us have gone to Old Trafford and been taught a lesson. We can't hide away and crumble. We've got to stand and be men and come back from this."
The Hoops defender told the Glasgow Evening Times: "We want to keep our home record going. But they are a very good side and it's going to be another tough night when United come to Glasgow.
Quality
"Quality at this level counts, and United had it all over the park. They are the best team in Europe."
Celtic boast an impressive home record in the Champions League and beat United at Celtic Park two years ago - one of 13 wins they have recorded in their last 16 home group games.
But it appears certain that the Scottish champions are playing for third place in Group E and a slot in the Uefa Cup.
"It's going to be very difficult to qualify now," admitted defender Mark Wilson.
"That's not to say we are not going to try our best. But, being realistic, the Uefa Cup is now our best option.
"We will do our best in the next game and hopefully our home crowd can get behind us the way United's crowd got behind them on Tuesday night."
