Aziz Behich can reel off the memorable away days.
A 3-0 win at Fenerbahce while on the books of Bursaspor.
Hammering Besiktas 4-0 on their own patch with Giresunspor.
A crucial 1-0 victory at the home of Galatasaray during Istanbul Basaksehir’s march to the league title.
Behich was no stranger to statement results during a fine career in Turkish football.
So, while the Dundee United wing-back is realistic about the onerous task awaiting the Tangerines against Celtic this afternoon, Behich will not be overawed.
“I like those hostile kinds of environments,” smiled the Australia ace. “As a footballer, you want to be in full stadiums — whether they are your supporters or not.
“It just makes the game more interesting and exciting. I am really looking forward to it.
“I was lucky enough to win at all of Turkey’s big three. I have had a good record against big opposition over there — hopefully that run keeps going over here.”
Fearless
Celtic have won five out of five Premiership matches at Parkhead this term, scoring 16 goals in the process and conceding just two goals.
Moreover, they humbled United 9-0 at Tannadice when the sides last met. Behich was an unused substitute for that capitulation; an afternoon that cost former boss Jack Ross his job.
But he is adamant there will be zero trepidation in Liam Fox’s group heading west.
“If you go in with fear, that’s when problems start to creep in,” he continued. “You go into your shell, drift away from the way you have trained and the team you want to be.
“So, we are going there with no fear. We did that against Rangers away and put in a good performance (narrow 2-1 defeat) and this will be no different.”
Postecoglou insight
Behich played under Ange Postecoglou during the Celtic boss’ time in charge of Australia, even lifting the Asian Cup in 2015.
As such, he is acutely aware of the pace, intensity and drive with which Postecoglou’s team operates. He lived it.
“Celtic want to keep the ball in play and move it quickly,” Behich continued. “That’s Ange’s style, which I have been part of.
“They want to suffocate you. We have to match that.
“It is a 90-minute game and you have to be switched on the whole time.”
Behich also acknowledges that bravery will be required — in and out of possession — given the relative certainty that, if United seek to simply park the bus at Parkhead, Celtic WILL eventually score.
“It is never nice trying to defend for 90 minutes,” he continued. “Eventually, it just takes a split decision, especially against quality opposition, and they will punish you.
“We know we are going to have to dig deep and stay strong as a collective.
“But we have to take the game to them as well.”
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