Derek McInnes has insisted that he and his Kilmarnock team will go into next weekend’s match against Celtic with confidence following their start to the season. The Ayrshire side qualified for the Last 16 of the Cup and have four points from two games, including a home win against Rangers and an away draw to Hearts.
Despite only scoring once, Killie have kept two clean sheets and will relish the opportunity to take the game to Celtic. As reported by The Sun, McInnes insisted that Celtic would be favourites but that his side would be looking forward to the match.
“I am confident, I have said that to the players.
“Celtic have a fantastic cup record and I was disappointed and made my opinion heard when we won our group and drew them. It wasn’t the tie we wanted but right now it feels like a good tie for us.
“Rugby Park will be jam packed, it will be a brilliant atmosphere, and I think the players should go into the game with a lot of confidence.
“We’ve had two clean sheets against (the)Rangers and Hearts, two strong performances individually and as a team. And it’s a brilliant cup-tie to look forward to, even this early in the season. The level of performance the team have put in gives us real encouragement.
“We know Celtic will be huge favourites, not only for the tie but the whole competition. But I feel the team is more ready for these types of games.”
🗣️ "Two clean sheets against Rangers and Hearts, it’s been a strong start from us defensively…"
Derek McInnes reflects on a positive start to the season for Kilmarnock and is aiming to bring in another attacker this summer ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/mVUAnItp5A
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) August 13, 2023
McInnes’ role last year appeared to be one of consolidation whilst this year, it appears to have been a case of building a side to compete. Certainly if their results in the first two league games are anything to go by, they will be a difficult side to face – especially on a plastic pitch in August.
Listening to the BBC’s coverage on the return leg of the road trip to Pittodrie, Killie had the better chances against Hearts. They’ll certainly have a go next weekend.
Celtic are currently plagued with injuries – Reo Hatate and Cameron Carter-Vickers were the latest to join the injury list at Pittodrie but Brendan Rodgers will be keen to continue his 100% record across three League Cup campaigns.
Meanwhile, check out Matt Corr speaking to the one and only Martin O’Neill on The Celtic Star Podcast…
