Lennon: ‘Celtic out to make history’

Celtic boss Neil Lennon says his side will be out to make history and let their fans “enjoy themselves” against Lazio this evening.

Celtic will qualify for the Europa League knockout stages if they beat Lazio and Stade Rennais fail to win against CFR Clug later.

However, the Scots have so far failed to emerge victorious in their 12 previous trips to Italy. 

“Realistically it is going to be very difficult to win here. Records are there to be broken,” Lennon said at a Press conference.

Celtic boss Neil Lennon says his side will be out to make history and let their fans “enjoy themselves” against Lazio this evening.

Celtic will qualify for the Europa League knockout stages if they beat Lazio and Stade Rennais fail to win against CFR Clug later.

However, the Scots have so far failed to emerge victorious in their 12 previous trips to Italy. 

“Realistically it is going to be very difficult to win here. Records are there to be broken,” Lennon said at a Press conference.

“We are going to have to play very well and take our chances if and when they should arise.

“We know we probably won’t dominate possession the way we would do normally during home games, and we are going to have to show a huge amount of concentration and quality.

“In the context of the group, it is such an important game. And there is so much quality on show.

“It’s my first time as a coach in Rome, so it’s a game we are very excited about and very motivated for.”

Despite their poor record on the peninsula, they did beat Celtic 2-1 at home last month.

“We were winners on the night, but we know how difficult the game is going to be.

“Lazio’s form of late has been really good. They had another great win at the San Siro [against Milan] on Sunday.

“We are under no illusions on how big the job is, to come here and try to get a result.

“But my players are also on great form, they have played very well domestically and obviously currently top the [Europa League] group.

“We know that can change very quickly, but we are here to ty to get a positive result and there is good belief amongst us to do that.”

Preparations have sadly been overshadowed by off-field trouble as two Celtic fans were stabbed by Lazio ultras last night.

“In terms of the safety of the fans, we just want them to come and have a celebration, enjoy themselves.

“The atmosphere at Celtic Park when we played Lazio was fantastic, the game was fantastic, and we expect more of the same.”