Strachan relief as Celtic win

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan expressed his relief as the Hoops gained their first Champions League points this season.

Kenny Miller scored the only goal of the game against FC Copenhagen from the penalty spot in the 36th minute after Shunsuke Nakamura was felled in the area.

Strachan told Scottish television: “We were excellent in the first half, but, in the second, bits and bobs were alright.

“In the last 20 minutes, we were a bit nervous but they never had a strike at goal.

“Our back four were brilliant in those last 20 minutes.

“We gave ourselves a problem because, like at Old Trafford, we got a bit tense and our passing started to waiver where, in the first half, it had been crisp and sharp.

“They were tired but we had too many touches on the ball which is something we need to rectify.

“But I am sure the players are glad to get the first win in the Champions League out of the way.”

But the Celtic boss spared praise for Paul Telfer and told the defender’s critics in the Celtic Park crowd to back the team and the players.

Strachan said: “Does no-one realise the runs he makes for Nakamura-he is prepared to run 40 yards to give Nakamura two yards of space.

“He was excellent tonight. He did everything the team wanted from him.

“I did get a bit annoyed tonight when Paul’s first ball went astray and the crowd got on it.

“You are either with us or not with us.”