John Arne Riise has cautioned Roma that they should brace themselves for an intense atmosphere at Celtic Park tomorrow night…
However, the ex-Liverpool defender believes his former side can return to Glasgow and make a major statement in Europe again this season, dealing a heavy setback to Celtic’s chances of advancing in the Europa League past January.
Gian Piero Gasperini’s side travel to Scotland only a month after handing theRangers a costly 2-0 defeat at Ibrox.
The Italian giants currently sit two points ahead of Celtic in the Europa League group phase and can secure qualification with a victory at Celtic Park.
A daunting and unforgettable atmosphere for the visitors
Riise believes ‘i Giallorossi’ are capable of getting the job done, but insists that if the entire stadium rallies behind the home side and their new manager, Wilfried Nancy – as he chases his first win – it could create a daunting and unforgettable atmosphere for the visitors.
The former Norway international experienced the Celtic Park environment during his time at Liverpool and told footitalia.com: “Celtic is one of the best games I played in because of the atmosphere and the passion the fans are showing, helping the team.
“What I do love about Anfield and at Celtic is the European nights. I think that they are quite special in both places. Obviously my favourite place is Anfield. I’d been playing there for many years, but when I see Celtic, the games for European nights on TV, and I played there myself, it’s unbelievable,” Riise added.
“It’s an unbelievable atmosphere, and the noise level is ridiculous.”
“I won’t compare them, but I will say that Celtic on a European night is one of the best games in the world to play in. It’s an unbelievable atmosphere, and the noise level is ridiculous.”
However, Riise expects Roma to make it two wins from two in Glasgow this season, saying: “Oh, I do think so. I think Roma’s been on a good run so far, at home in the Italian League.”
“The one thing I would say could be tough is whether they can handle that style of play that Celtic have, as well as the passionate fans in the stadium.”
“Celtic players are going to go out from the first whistle to just run over you”
“All those kinds of the things, because it’s going to be passionate and I know from experience that Celtic players are going to go out from the first whistle to just run over you, and try to create chances, to get the fans behind them and that could be intimidating if you don’t know how to react to that.”
“But that’s the only thing that I would be concerned about. Apart from that, I’m confident that Roma can get the win.”
Having watched their game at Ibrox, Roma were competent enough and got the job done but with an eye to this game my thoughts at the time were that Celtic would give them a game and would stand a decent chance, especially as Celtic Park is just about sold out.
Let’s make some noise for the Bhoys and for Wilfried Nancy to help get him his first win as Celtic manager.
Conor Spence
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