Georgios Samaras has reflected on Celtic’s confidence and determination to enjoy themselves this week in hosting Barcelona.
The Scottish League champions are preparing to once more host the Catalans in the group stage of the Champions League, on from doing so last season and defeating them 2-1 at Celtic Park.
For the team’s Greek international striker, confidence is high and not just because of the 5-2 League win at the weekend over Kilmarnock, where he netted a hat-trick.
“You cannot compare the two games and say that because we won against Kilmarnock, confidence will be high. Confidence is always high,” mused Samaras to reporters this week.
“We always believe in the ourselves and our team. We don't need to beat Kilmarnock 5-2 to go and be competitive against Barcelona.
“I feel good within myself. I don't need any confidence. I believe in myself every hour and every day. I know exactly what I can do for this team and to help my teammates win games.”
Celtic go into Tuesday’s game against Barca pointless in Group H after opening day defeat to Milan.
“We will go and enjoy it. We were a bit unlucky in that game against Milan, we didn't take our chances.
“I don't think we will have so many chances against Barcelona so we need to be more clinical.
“If we have the chance, we need to put it in the back of the net if we want something good from the game, like we did last year.
“We have to stay focused, try to minimise our mistakes and try to play to our strengths.”
