Celtic out to make a statement

Celtic defender Efe Ambrose is talking tough ahead of his club’s battle against high-flying Juventus in the last 16 of the Champions League.

The draw on Thursday pitched the Italian giants against Celtic, with the Serie A leaders expected to progress.

When asked whether the pairing would halt the progress of Celtic in the competition, the Nigeria defender told Goal.com: “We fear no foe. The 180 minutes will decide our fate.”

Ambrose said it was time people started treating Celtic with respect and that the team are not afraid of big names in the game.

“I can tell you honestly that it is a good draw for us and we are very happy about it,” he said.

“We have a united team and we believe in our quality and talent and most importantly, our coaches have been awesome and technically savvy.

“So like I said, we fear no foe but respect all our opponents as we want to make a statement in this competition.”

Celtic secured their passage into the last 16 with a 2-1 victory over Spartak Moscow on the final match day.

Ambrose believes that win and the 2-1 victory over Barcelona at Celtic Park will give his side plenty of confidence.

“We have learnt a great lesson from our last match against Barcelona and I am confident that we will continue to improve as a team,” he said.

“We will surely be in the last eight with hard work and mother luck on our side.”