Mowbray downbeat about Bhoys’ hopes

CELTIC manager Tony Mowbray admits qualification for the knock-out stages of the Europa League would now be an unexpected bonus.

The Hoops go into the penultimate game against Group C leaders Hapoel Tel Aviv at Parkhead tonight bottom of the pool on two points, five behind second-placed Hamburg.

Mowbray’s men need to beat Hapoel and win at Rapid Vienna later in the month, while hoping the Bundesliga side lose both their remaining games.

The former Hibernian and West Brom boss, who cut a rather downbeat figure as he previewed the visit of the Israeli club, appeared to accept that is an unlikely scenario. Asked if qualification would now be an unexpected bonus, he replied: “That’s a fair comment.

“The focus is on winning the last two games and, for the bigger picture, just to keep winning football matches, keeping the confidence high and see where the season takes us.

“We will be as competitive as we have been in the other games and, if the opportunities come along, hopefully we will take them.’’

Celtic’s opening Group C game was in Tel Aviv where they deservedly led through a Georgios Samaras strike before the home side countered with two late goals in the second half.

A defeat by Hamburg at Celtic Park was sandwiched between draws at home to Rapid Vienna and away to the Bundesliga side.

When asked what the story of the Europa League for Celtic had been, Mowbray replied: “Probably missed opportunities. It’s pleasing that we could have won every game. But we haven’t and there is the frustration that we haven’t taken enough points from the level of performances.’’