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Ange Postecoglou knows the week ahead of him at Celtic is ”massive’ – but insists he wouldn’t have it any other way.
The Hoops are in Europa League action on Thursday as they look to seal a group stage place against AZ Alkmaar in the Netherlands.
That comes just days before a potentially season-defining derby clash with Rangers at Ibrox.
Postecoglou isn’t taking his eyes off the prize however as he knows qualifying for the Europa League proper takes precedence.
He said: “It’s important for the club. It’s something that helps us in terms of building something for this year.
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“We missed out on the Champions League, which was disappointing, so this is a chance to set ourselves up to get to a group stage in the Europa League.
“And we know there are going to be some big games in there. It gives us an opportunity to try to build something special for this year and beyond.
“It can set up big nights for both the players and the supporters. That’s why you want to be in Europe.
“You want to play against some of the other big clubs on the continent and the Europa League group stage opens more possibilities to do something special.”
Every game feels like a cup final for Celtic at present but Postecoglou knew what he was getting into when he signed up.
He went on: “The first week was a Champions League game.
“I understood when I took on this role that is the club I’m at, where every game is a big one. I love that. That’s why I’m here.
“But yeah they are two massive games, two high-profile games and I’m aware I’m exactly where I want to be – and that is right in the middle of it.
“I’m looking forward to it immensely.”
New right-back Josip Juranovic won’t be available to play against AZ with Anthony Ralston set to start once more.
But Juranovic could debut against Rangers, much to Postecoglou’s relief.
He added: “Josip Juranovic can’t play in this game but he’ll be available for the weekend as well, which is good because we’ll probably need some fresh legs for that game.”
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