‘IT’S NOT ABOUT REVENGE,’ DEILA

The trophy holders were dismissed 3-1 in highly controversial circumstances in the semi-final at Hampden a fortnight ago following Efe Ambrose’s 13th-minute red card.

Deila is looking for a positive response from his team, but the Norwegian had to choose his reply carefully when asked if revenge was the correct expression regarding the visit of the Highlanders.

He said: “I think it is the wrong word, but at the same time we really want to bounce back after the semi-final.

“I think proving a point is better. It is about getting momentum, getting on the right track and winning football games.

“First of all is to win. That is the most important thing, but we also want to win playing beautiful football.

“We want both, but if I have to choose I will take the first one. We have prepared well and are looking forward to the game.

“We want to take with us the 12-15 minutes at Hampden where we created a lot of chances and do that for 90 minutes.”

Celtic lead Aberdeen on goal difference at the top of the table, having played one game fewer, but the Hoops boss expects his players to rise to the challenge in order to retain the title.

He added: “They are going to be more hungry, of course. They know that it is very important to keep momentum and winning games and getting performances.

“I am very impressed with what Aberdeen have done. They have done very well, so all credit to them.”

Hopefully there will be a big crowd at Celtic Park tomorrow and they will be 100% behind the players and the manager as Celtic set about securing 5 in a row.