Strachan happy to face up to Sir Alex

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CELTIC are delighted at the prospect of another ’Battle of Britain’ clash with Manchester United in the Champions League.

The SPL champions have been paired with Sir Alex Ferguson’s men in the group stages for the second time in three seasons.

After drawing AC Milan last season, Hoops fans will also relish seeing their heroes pit their wits against the European champions for the second year running.

Manager Gordon Strachan is also deligheted to get another crack at Europe’s top side.

Strachan said: “It’s exciting - it’s another challenge for this group of players and it’s one we relish.

“We know all about Manchester United and Villarreal, but Aalborg will be a good side, that’s for sure.

The Hoops played United de two seasons ago in the group stage.

Celtic lost 3-2 at Old Trafford but a 1-0 victory in Glasgow saw them qualify for the knockout stages for the first time in the club’s history.

They reached the last 16 again last season but Strachan admits it will be a tough task to repeat those feats.

Celtic chairman John Reid was stunned by the draw, revealing it took place moments after he had met delegates from his club’s forthcoming opponents.

He said: “The three people we were talking to before the draw were Sir Alex Ferguson, the United people, Villarreal and Aalborg and we got the three of them there.”

“We also seem to make a habit of drawing the European champions!

“It’s fabulous for Celtic fans and will cause great excitement in the country.

ke. “There are no easy groups, there are no free passes in Europe. “We’re just proud to be Scotland’s representative in there and to be playing against some of the best teams in Europe.

Celtic’s joy at over the Euro draw has been tempered by the likely loss of Scott McDonald for Sunday’s Old Firm derby.

The Australian striker admitted he expects to miss the match because of a groin injury.