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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
Sport
Ben Banks

Celtic and Rangers labelled 'European minnows' but Champions League return 'unfairly prejudiced'

Celtic and Rangers never had a chance of competing in the Champions League this season according to Simon Jordan.

The talkSPORT radio host and former Crystal Palace owner has reacted to a tough night for Ange Postecoglou's side at Celtic Park, where they watched their last 16 qualification hopes from Group F collapse in a 2-0 loss against RB Leipzig. Rangers meanwhile face Liverpool tonight at Ibrox and go into their fourth Group A clash having lost all three games against the Reds, Ajax and Napoli without scoring a goal and conceding nine.

It's the first time both of the Glasgow clubs have been at this stage together since 2007 and Jordan reckons years away from this stage has come into effect in harsh fashion this time around. He believes they are small clubs when compared to the strength of their opponents but this stint will do them well long-term.

READ MORE: Antonio Colak earns triumphant Rangers praise as he earns 'standout' player tag amid goal rush

He said: "They are European minnows in comparison to the experience of some of the sides they’re playing against. They’re Champions League minnows in terms of the amount of times they have participated.

"It’s been unfairly prejudiced because they have not had the opportunity to do it in a direct fashion like they should have had, and only recently have they been allowed straight into the Champions League draw without needing to go through qualifying.

"This was always going to be an expedition into the unknown to get some extra experience and extra finance. f they finish third they drop into the Europa League and get another tilt at Europe.

"I think it's an exercise in increased revenue increased opportunity, getting themselves at the top table, reacquainting themselves with some of these sides they are perfectly capable in beating in the longer game."

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