Celtic expert drops ‘massive’ claim after confirmed news
Frank McAvennie is delighted so many Celtic players have been left out of their international teams for the upcoming break.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Hoops striker said playing in front of 60,000 fans at Parkhead is a “massive achievement” but acknowledged the benefit of playing for your national team.
Eight members of the first team were called up for international duty this week including captain Callum McGregor, Daizen Maeda, Hyeongyu Oh, Alistair Johnston,, Liel Abada, Sead Haksabanovic, Carl Starfelt and goalkeeper Conor Hazard.
Aaron Mooy was included in Australia’s squad for their upcoming friendlies but had to withdraw due to injury.
Notable omissions from their national teams include Japanese pair Kyogo Furuhashiand Reo Hatate as well as US international Cameron Carter-Vickers.
When asked if international experience will benefit the Hoops in the Champions Leage next season, McAvennie told Football Insider: “I think so.
“I know what it is like to play big games but going and playing in front of 60,000 fans every week that is a massive achievement in itself.
“You have got to be right at it because the fans will let you know. I have seen the manager change people at half time if they are not on it. Everyone has got to be really at it.
“It is a good thing for Celtic that some of the players are not going.“
The winner of this season’s Scottish Premiership title will automatically enter the Champions League group stage for 2023/24 thanks to Scotland’s ninth-place UEFA coefficient.
The Celts automatically qualified for the group stages of the competition this season but finished bottom of their group with just two points.
In other news, major update on Ange Postecoglou potentially quitting Celtic for Tottenham after update.