Spartak Moscow coach Unai Emery was delighted by his side’s 3-1 win away to Amkar Perm.
Without the suspended Aiden McGeady Spartak won their third match in eight days following their Champions League defeat at Barcelona although they were without injured goalkeeper Andriy Dikan.
Pavel Ignatovich put the homeside in front after 11 minutes after Spartak failed to clear a corner but eleven minutes later Kim Kallstrom equalised for the visitors.
Early in the second half Amkar keeper Sergey Narubin was red carded for handling outside the penalty area.
Spartak sub Roman Gerus put the visitors in front midway through the second half with another sub, Artem Dzyuba, sealing the win in stoppage time.
“It was an important win for us,” Emery admitted. “Amkar haven’t lost at home for over a year, when they scored the first goal that made our task even harder.
“We’ve struggled in that position in the past but thankfully we were able to turn it around. Even down to 10 men Amkar made it tough for us but we coped with that.”
The win wasn’t without problems for Amkar with first choice keeper Dikan missing the game due to a shoulder injury which will be examined today.
Nigerian striker Emmanuel Emenike and Denny de Zeeuw clashed on the pitch with Emery claiming that the situation was resolved in the dressing room.
Neil Lennon has studied Spartak closely and believes that Tuesday’s match will be every bit as tough as a visit to the Nou Camp.
“We’ve had Spartak watched,” the Celtic boss said. “They are a tough unit and methodical with good individual talent in forward areas.
“They set up in a pretty rigid 4-2-3-1 and Aiden has a role where he can rove in off the line. They like to play in between the lines.
“Emmanuel Emenike is a pretty powerful striker. He was excellent when Spartak lost 3-2 at the Nou Camp against Barca.
“They have pace in the wide areas and like the full-backs to get forward. The two centre-halves are strong.
“Their players are proper footballers, battle hardened and experienced. Although they are physical, they will be disciplined. Going there will be as tough as the Nou Camp.”
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At least yous are going. Any wan got any pies?
Thank god we’re not going Alistair – you struggle to beat Highland League opposition, lord only knows what you’d be like against a quality side, you useless pudding!