Why Celtic must win tonight for Scottish football's sake

Despite the problems off the Scottish football pitch, there is a lot to celebrate in recent times like the arrival of a much more enthusiastic and passionate national football team manager with a proven track record of success.

And then there's a certain football club in the east end of Glasgow who have a major responsibility on their shoulders tonight. Not just for the sake of their club, but for the sake of the country and the national game.

Celtic will be pitting their wits against Juventus in just under an hour's time in front of 60,000 roared up fans and millions of viewers across these islands and beyond. I have every confidence in Neil Lennon and his men and believe they will run out as clear winners by the end of the game tonight. They've done it before and will do it again.

After news yesterday regarding Celtic's excellent financial figures for the final half of 2012, the fruits of success in Europe's top footballing competition have been well and truly known. And a win in the last 16 isn't just beneficial for the finances at Parkhead. Lets also remember that the whole game in Scotland benefits too if Celtic put Juventus out of the Champions League, because Scotland will rise in the UEFA coefficient league, hence more places will be made available for entry into UEFA competitions such as the Champions League and Europa League to Scottish clubs.

I wish Juventus every success in the world. But, without apology, Celtic have my support and further progress in this competition is nothing more than welcome.