Luke McCowan insists Celtic must back themselves to take down Bayern Munich after being drawn against the German giants in the Champions League knockout play-offs.
The 27-year-old midfielder, who joined the Hoops from Dundee on deadline day in the summer, has already experienced a whirlwind season, helping Celtic dominate the Scottish Premiership, lift the Premier Sports Cup, and qualify for the knockout stage of the new-format Champions League.
McCowan is under no illusions about the size of the task ahead, but he insists Celtic must believe they can progress, even if they may have to do it without away supporters due to a potential UEFA fan ban. This has yet to be confirmed, but Celtic have warned fans not to book up for the second leg in Germany, yet.
Celtic will host Bayern at Celtic Park on February 12, before heading to the Allianz Arena for the second leg on February 18.
Despite Bayern’s pedigree and firepower, McCowan is relishing the challenge and has urged his teammates to approach the tie with confidence.
“We have to believe we can go through,” he said, as quoted by The National. “If we didn’t think like that there would be no point in playing the games.
“The challenge for us is to qualify and we know it’s a really big challenge. But we have to believe it’s one we can get through.
“You’re talking about a massive club and a very successful club in the Champions League.
“It’s going to be unreal and my first ever time at that stadium.
“It’s a bit surreal for me but the team is buzzing for it and looking forward to the challenge.
“I’m looking forward to coming up against the likes of Neuer, Kimmich, Sane, Kane. It’s incredible. Musiala is another one you watch.
“It’ll be great to see them in person and see the level they’re at. Hopefully we can try and match it.”
With Celtic Park set for another famous European night, the Hoops will be aiming to take the fight to Bayern in Glasgow before facing the ultimate test in Germany.
McCowan and his teammates know they’ll be written off by many, but belief within the squad remains strong as they prepare to face one of Europe’s elite.
