O'Neill dismisses Premiership talk

Martin O'Neill anticipates a tough tie against Blackburn

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill insists the Uefa Cup tie against Blackburn Rovers will have no bearing on the club's argument for playing in the English Premiership.

Instead, O'Neill is concentrating on getting his side through what he believes will be an extremely difficult tie.

Celts anticipate rousing match

"If we win it won't really prove anything regarding whether or not Scottish teams like Celtic and Rangers are good enough to play in the Premiership," the Celtic boss told the club's official website.

"It won't prove anything except this is a big competition and one we'd obviously like to get through, but I'm sure Blackburn are feeling exactly the same way.

"They've spent a few bob down through the years, and they have done again recently.

"They are a very good side, without a doubt. They won the League Cup last season, they can play a bit and they have some very talented players.

"I suppose people will immediately ask how we measure up against Premiership opposition and all that kind of thing, and it'll be a difficult game for us."