Ståle Solbakken

Ståle: We won't prioritise one competition over another

Manager Ståle Solbakken and F.C. Copenhagen midfielder Jens Stage spoke to the press ahead of Thursday's UEFA Europa League clash at Celtic.

And Stage, who missed a penalty in the first-leg 1-1 draw in Telia Parken last week, refused to be drawn on if he would take another spot-kick.

Asked if Celtic's home atmosphere could intimidate the Lions, Stage said: "The atmosphere was also great in Copenhagen, and I think it will be the same tomorrow."

FCK manager Solbakken admitted the odds had shifted in favour of the Scots after the first leg and an away goal in Copenhagen, but recalled that we had the same feeling after we drew 1-1 against Red Star in the qualifying rounds.

"It can be a dilemma for Celtic if it is still even as the game progresses," Ståle said.

"Although they scored first, we are still involved if we score the next goal and so on. There can be plenty of psychology in the fight.

"We are not prioritising one tournament over another, we are just in favour of winning all our matches. It is one of the reasons for the success we have had in Europe.

"We have created a culture where we are not content to make a decent effort. Nice try, well done, but you lost the match. We only go out to win matches.

"Gradually we have built up a lot of knowledge and created a culture in the club, so we know what to pay attention to in these matches. We have been able to take our learnings from one generation of players to the next and once you make this progress, and repeat the successes, it's always easier to do it again."

Asked about the secret of FCK's European success, Ståle cheekily replied: "The players change regularly, but the coach is the same."

You can watch the 6'eren and DPlay on Thursday night if you are not in Glasgow.