Matt O'Riley tells Celtic stars to believe in Champions League shocks as he aims to put SPFL snipers in their place

Matt O'Riley has urged his Celtic team-mates to believe they can be a huge hit in the Champions League – and insists the Hoops can beat anybody in the competition.

The Parkhead midfielder is adamant that Brendan Rodgers' side can dare to dream big no matter who they land in the group stages when the draw is made on August 31. O’Riley is adamant last season’s experience in the competition has made Celtic far more capable of making an impact. He said: “Experience can only help, whether it is good experience or bad. Going into the next season and the next crack at the Champions League, you are more prepared and more ready mentally because you know the level and should back yourself to really go for it.

“I just hope all of us in the team really believe we can actually do something this year because I believe it’s possible. It’s football isn’t it? We have seen things in the past where teams not expected to win things do win them. Leicester won the Premier League and we should go into the Champions League believing we can win every game. Not necessarily expecting to but we have to give ourselves the best chance of doing well.

"It might not be possible, we might not be favourites in every game but it’s still possible. Scottish football gets a bit overlooked and the Champions League is the platform to really show that the teams in this league can play good football and really compete.

“Going into this year I would like to put a marker down and say, ‘okay we are actually here for a reason’. I’m not afraid to dream or say crazy stuff like I really believe we can beat anybody in it. I don’t just say it – I do mean it. It is possible. We are going to be there in the group, so we have the chance to win the games. We will be