Alistair Johnston 'excited' at Celtic's Champions League challenge in Croatia

Celtic defender Alistair Johnston admits he’s excited about his side’s clash with Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League and believes the team can target a huge away win.

The Scottish champions travel to Croatia for Matchday Six in the new-look League Phase, with their qualification hopes looking healthy after two wins and two draws from their matches so far.

Dinamo’s recent form means Celtic head to Zagreb as favourites but the Canadian right-back says he knows the team will face a tough challenge.

“It’s a great match,” Johnston said.

“It’s one that I think we all looked at and realised that’s going to be a team and a place that’s going to be difficult to go and play.

“Obviously there’s massive history of how difficult Croatian matches can be both at international and at club level as well.

“It’s a match we’re excited for.”

A win would represent a major step towards the knockout stages but also underline how Celtic have been growing at this level. Johnston said everything is set up for a “special” night.

“I think it will be a great atmosphere but it’s also a great chance for us to go and pick up points on the road,” the right-back said.

“We struggled with that against Dortmund but found our feet against Atalanta and now this is a great chance to see if we can push on and pick up three points.

“Either way, we’re expecting a big match and we know the travelling support will be great.

“I think it will be a really special night.”