MIKAEL LUSTIG reckons Zenit St Petersburg will now be aware of Celtic’s strengths after last night’s well-deserved 1-0 win in the first leg of the Europa League last-32 tie at Parkhead.
The Russians were favourites to go through to the next stage, but they surrendered to a superb Callum McGregor goal and will face a battle on home soil on Thursday.
Asked what message the game sent out to Roberto Mancini’s side, the 31-year-old Sweden international right-back replied: “That we are good footballers.
“When we are going forward, we are flying and we create a lot of chances. We kept the ball really good as well and were solid.
“If they didn’t know that we are a good team before they know it now.”
Lustig added: “Of course, it is a good result, to keep a clean sheet and get three points.
“But the performance probably gives us more confidence, especially the first-half.
“We went straight at them, created a lot of chances and were really solid in defence.
“Everyone from Moussa Dembele to Dorus De Vries helped a lot, we worked hard as a team, it was brilliant.
“It will be a tough game next week. We are going to be humble, we know we face a really good team, but, like I said, this type of performance gives us more confidence.”
