Spartak Bhoy
Spartak Moscow defeated Zilina 2-1 in the Czech Republic last night to ensure a seeded spot in next Friday’s Europa League draw.
Last night’s results mean that Rangers won’t be seeded which sets up the possibility that Aiden McGeady’s side could be paired with Rangers when Ronnie Whelan and Bobby Charlton make the Europa League draw in Nyon.
The group stages of the Europa League will be completed next week with the draw for the last 32 and last 16 both being made next Friday, December 17.
With the Europa League final taking place in Dublin UEFA will be concerned by Rangers presence in the competition with the shameful scenes from the Manchester final in 2008 still fresh in mind.
There was a 20 minute hold up at the Stadion Zilina as fireworks were cleared from the pitch with the on-field action hotting up in the 48th minute when Thomas Majtan put the home side in front.
Spartak responded with two goals within fifteen minutes from Brazilians Alex and Ibson to finish the campaign on 9 points with the highlight being a 1-0 win away to Marseille on Matchday 1.
The matches in the round of 32 stage of the Champions League will be played on February 17 and 24.
The Russian season doesn’t begin until March but no dates or fixtures have been issued for next season with the Russian Federation looking to change their season to a more conventional calendar with an extended winter break through December and January.
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Neil Lennon- ten years at Celtic
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