Champions League is a bonus to Celtic’s Nir

Nir Biton is just over a week away from gracing the Champions League for the first time.

The Israeli internationalist already has his sights set on lining up against AC Milan in the San Siro.

But the Celtic midfielder insists he would have still signed on at Parkhead, even if Neil Lennon wasn’t in a position to offer him his first crack at Europe’s top competition.

Biton returns to Glasgow this week from international duty to begin life at Celtic Park after signing before the end of the transfer window following the club’s successful bid to reach the group stage.

“My move to Celtic didn’t hinge on the club playing in the Champions League,” says the former Ashdod man.

“I would have still signed for the club even if they hadn’t qualified.

“The deal was concluded after the team managed to win their qualifying game but it wouldn’t have stopped me signing if they hadn’t.

“It will be great to play in the Champions League.

“For me, this will be the first time in my career I’ve played in the competition but there are so many other great things about Celtic.

“The supporters are unbelievable, and I am now at a club which wants to win the Championship and the cup competitions.

“I’m excited about being successful and I’ll treat every game like a Champions League game.”

Biton knows Celtic will have their work cut out to emulate last season’s success story in the competition when they finished second in their group ahead of both Benfica and Spartak Moscow.

Having been drawn against Barcelona once again as well as AC Milan and Ajax the midfielder accepts it is one of the toughest draws the club could have been handed.

But he said: “This is the Champions League, so you expect that.

“Sure, we have three great teams to play. But I believe we can compete against these teams.

“I was in Israel when Celtic beat Barcelona last season.

“I watched in on the TV back home and that game showed anything is possible.

“We have good players here at Celtic. The manager has brought in some new players and we all want to help the team continue to be successful.

“I’m just looking forward to trying to settle in and show what I can do.”

Biton already knows exactly what is required at Celtic, having previously played with Efe Ambrose and discussed life in Glasgow with his international team-mate Beram Kayal.

He said: “I know what to expect, of course. I was already good friends with Efe and also Beram.

“So it is good for me to have those two around because I’m sure they will help me settle.

“What I know about Celtic already is that you have to try and win every single game and you have to be successful.”