Celtic fans hoping Winter break gives them Zenit advantage

Monday’s UEFA Europa League draw threw up a tantalising tie for Celtic. They’ll face Russian side Zenit St Petersburg in the Round of 32, set to take place next February.

It’s a hugely difficult match-up for the Hoops, but perhaps not the worst case scenario given they could have drawn the likes of Arsenal and Atletico Madrid.

Celtic have a great record against Russian opposition, playing six matches, winning three, drawing two and losing just once. They’ve also progressed from every knock-out tie involving Russian teams.

Still, Zenit are a talented side and scored more goals than any other team in the Europa League group stages, demonstrating their attacking threat will be a stern test for Brendan Rodgers’ defence.

Supporters recognise that threat and most make them favourites, but some are taking solace in the fact that the Russians don’t have a competitive match until they visit Celtic Park.

The Russian Premier League’s Winter break has just started and the fact they don’t play a serious game until the two sides meet could be a factor in the tie.

Fans took to Twitter to share their thoughts on the matter…