SCOTT BAIN is poised to make his Champions League debut against Armenia’s Alashkert on Wednesday night – if Craig Gordon fails to recover from his wrist injury.
The Celtic back-up keeper, who agreed a four-year deal in the summer after his impressive loan period, stood in for the Scotland international in the 4-1 win over Standard Liege on Saturday.
Brendan Rodgers took no risks with his veteran No.1 against the Belgians and Bain made a couple of good saves during his 45 minutes before he was replaced at the interval by young Irishman Conor Hazard.
Now he is ready to step up again with the Hoops already three goals ahead from last week’s first leg encounter.
He said: “The only thing you can be is ready and I feel that I am. This pre-season has been the hardest of my career without question, but I have loved every single minute of it.
“I feel fit and I feel sharp and whatever happens I know that I am ready to play.”
Bain admitted he is focused in going to the top with the champions.
The former Dundee shotstopper added: “I have everything here and I am determined to use it. I have access to the gym, to advice, to sports scientists, to nutritionists and I am playing alongside top quality players under the guidance of a top manager.
“All of that has to make you a better player. I am delighted to be here and I just want to work as hard as I possibly can to be the best goalkeeper that I can be.
“I have been on the other side and know what it is like to be playing and training while holding down a job at the same time, so I can appreciate what a privileged position it is to be in.
“I’m here to push Craig all the way and that’s what I plan to do. We all encourage one another and it is a case of making sure that I am here and ready to play whenever I am called upon.”
