Luke McCowan says Celtic must believe they can BEAT Bayern Munich and make the Champions League last 16.
Brendan Rodgers’ side were drawn against the German giants in the play-off round, with their first-leg at Parkhead in 10 days time. Celtic will be huge underdogs against Harry Kane and Co with the Bundesliga side one of the tournament favourites. But McCowan says there’s no point in Rodgers’ men turning up if they don’t think they can see off Bayern. And he can’t wait for his first ever visit to the Allianz Arena for the second-leg.
The former Dundee midfielder said: “We have to believe we can go through. If we didn’t think like that there would be no point in playing the games. The challenge for us is to qualify and we know it’s a really big challenge. But we have to believe it’s one we can get through.
“I only just found out on Friday that Munich is where the Champions League Final is. So it will be nice to visit the venue. It will be a great occasion and hopefully one where we can come out on top.”
Celtic face an anxious wait to see if their fans will be allowed to be at the return leg in Munich after getting another fine from UEFA. Having previously been given a suspended punishment for the use of pyrotechnics, a flare was thrown on the pitch during their 4-2 defeat to Aston Villa in midweek.
Supporters are likely to be banned for the Allianz but McCowan has pleaded with UEFA to show leniency. He’s revealed his own friends and family could miss out on the trip due to the actions of a minority – and says it would be a travesty if the majority of fans can’t travel.
McCowan said: “It’s a shame that the fans might not get to go. For a tie like that, you want every fan to go and enjoy it – and be safe. You want it to be a great occasion. As you saw on Wednesday night at Villa Park, the supporters make it.
“When we equalised and they all went mental, it was great. Hopefully the club can work with UEFA and the fans can go to Munich.
“I’ve got too many pals and members of my family wanting to go. I’ve no idea what it will be like trying to get tickets! They’ll be told if they’re going to be on their best behaviour.”