‘CELTIC WILL BE SCOURING THE WORLD FOR A TOP STRIKER’ CLAIM

FORMER Celtic striker Scott McDonald is convinced his old team will be involved in the Europa League knock-out stages next year.

The ex-Australian international hitman believes Neil Lennon’s side will get through, but reckons the team are too dependant on Odsonne Edouard up front.

The French Under-21 international will again be in pole position when the champions take on Lazio in the Olympic Stadium in Rome tonight with understudies Vakoun Issouf Bayo and Leigh Griffiths left at home.

McDonald, who scored 64 goals in his three seasons at Parkhead after his move from Motherwell in 2007, told the BBC: “They’re a bit threadbare up top and heavily reliant on Edouard.

“You get that one injury to him and you’re in bother. There’s no question at the moment Celtic will be scouring the world for a top striker.

“It just depends what funds Neil Lennon has to bring in the right one.”

However, McDonald added: “The football they’ve been playing is phenomenal.

“They’ve still got Rennes to come to Celtic Park, so I’m more than confident they will reach the next stage.”

The Hoops are top of their section on seven points and a win in Rome would virtually guarantee European football in 2020.

They overcame the Italians in Glasgow a fortnight ago after trailing at the interval. Ryan Christie equalised and Christopher Jullien bulleted in a header from a corner-kick in the 89th minute.for the winner.

Goals from Edouard and Mohamed Elyounoussi gave the Hoops a 2-0 victory over Champions League conquerors Cluj while Christie swept in a penalty-kick in the 1-1 draw with Rennes in France.

* DON’T miss the unbeatable match report from Lazio v Celtic this evening – only in your champion CQN.