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Celtic after English opponent in Europa League - Collins

Celtic assistant John Collins hopes his club is drawn against an English side in the Europa League's Round of 32.

The Scottish giants are set to finish second in Group D of Europe's second tier club competition regardless of Thursday night's result against Dinamo Zagreb meaning they are safely through to the knockout phase.

Ahead of the draw for the 32, Collins said it would be a great thrill if Celtic landed Liverpool, Everton, Tottenham or even Manchester City who could drop into the Europa League depending on their Champions League clash with AS Roma.

"There are quite a few English teams in it already so it would be nice to meet them further down the line," former Bhoys, Toffees and Fulham midfielder Collins said.

"You have mixed emotions. You obviously would like an easy draw if there is such thing as an easy draw at this stage.

"But, at the same time, it would be great for the club and the players to test ourselves against a big English team. We watched last night and Liverpool dropped down into the Europa League.

"It is great, I think it enhances the tournament when the big boys drop in. It gets really exciting."

Celtic have recorded eight points form their five group outings thus far which has them five behind group winners Red Bull Salzburg and for clear of third-placed Astra.

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