Tomorrow will indicate Celtic’s true position

Since ending their league season on 23 December, Bodo/Glimt have played three friendlies: a draw with Dinamo Kiev, and wins over Denmark’s AGF and Sweden’s Elfdborg, all played in Spain, each opponent is also preseason.  Their next two outings are against Celtic, both should be exhausting encounters for the Norwegians.

You and I have watched enough preseason European football to know what a task this will be for Bodo/Glimt.  Take nothing for granted, though.  Two years ago, after finishing top of our Europa League group, we faced preseason Copenhagen.  A draw in the first leg in Denmark was not enough.  The Danes, who should have ran out of juice before Celtic, scored twice in the closing minutes at Celtic Park to progress.  Norwegian sides have done well over five visits to Celtic Park in the last six years, Rosenborg drew twice and lost twice, while Molde won.

Celtic fans are full of confidence right now.  What we are missing is a test against non-Scottish opposition.  Drubbing a limp Newco gave us hope that we are watching something special.  Tomorrow night will give an indication as to whether that hope is valid.  I expect a far tougher examination.