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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Gabriel McKay

Lazio warned over Celtic danger man as Massimo Donati explains key Neil Lennon difference

Kilmarnock assistant manager Massimo Donati has warned Lazio that James Forrest is the man they must shackle if they're to beat Celtic in the Europa League tonight.

The Italian giants are in Glasgow for tonight's Group E clash, with Neil Lennon 's side hoping to cement their advantage at the top of the group.

Donati is a former Celtic player, and he was asked for his inside information on the Scottish champions.

He told Tuttomercatoweb : "They almost always play with a 4-2-3-1.

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"Their style of play has changed compared to previous years, under Brendan Rodgers they always played with the ball on the deck and built from the back.

"With Lennon they're more pragmatic. They're less interested in being beautiful but are more solid, they play more long balls and battle more, which in a certain sense reflects their manager when he was a player."

Donati was asked who he believes can hurt Lazio, and was very clear in his response.

"I'd say Forrest . In my view he's the most interesting individual, he's capable of incredible bursts of speed and he's physically robust.

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"There's also (Odsonne) Edouard who has a great physique and shoots really well. And also (Ryan) Christie who has started the season well, scoring a lot."

One big focus for the Italian media in the lead-up to the game has been the famous Celtic Park atmosphere.

" Kilmarnock played against Celtic a few weeks ago and we lost 3-1 in Glasgow, but we were in front," Donati recalled.

Massimo Donati celebrates his late winner against Shakhtar Donetsk (Russell Cheyne/Reuters)

"Clearly what they say about the atmosphere at Celtic Park is true. European games are special, you breathe in an incredible atmosphere and being supported in that way gives you something extra.

"What you experience before and during the game is electrifying. They're beautiful nights, I've had the good fortune to experience them and it's not easy for the opposition.

"All in all, Celtic are a good team with some important individuals. Of course, if you just take individual names then Lazio are clearly better.

"But the stadium factor could have an impact."

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