Kieran Tierney has stressed the importance of Celtic getting the disappointment of not qualifying for the Champions League group stage out of their system and proving their mettle in the Europa League.

Celtic’s hope of playing in the Champions League group stage ended in the third qualifying round when Greek outfit AEK Athens beat the Scottish champions 3-2 over a two-legged tie.




Brendan Rodgers’ side overcame Suduva in their Europa League playoff tie to reach the group stage of the competition, but it is clear they wanted to play in the Champions League.

Celtic have attracted criticism for failing to make Europe’s elite competition and Tierney understands the disappointment of not playing European football on Tuesday or Wednesday nights.
 


However, he insisted that the Bhoys need to forget their failings and concentrate on doing well in the Europa League as they owe their fans big performances in Europe.

Tierney said in a press conference: “You need to take into consideration how good the last two seasons have been. We have done so well.

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“This season there have been a few disappointments but that’s in the past. We need to go out and make it right.

"The crowd deserve it. They are with us every game, home and away.

“Everything we do is for them so hopefully we can give them something to cheer about tomorrow night."

Celtic will host Rosenborg at Parkhead in their opening Europa League game on Thursday night.