Fran Alonso believes the little details will be the difference as he prepares his side for what he describes as ‘a must-win’ game for both teams, as Celtic take on Glasgow City this Thursday night.

It will be the third meeting between the sides this season, with the Hoops yet to taste defeat – they drew 2-2 in the league, while Celtic won 1-0 in the League Cup final back in December.

Now they know that a win on Thursday will see them leapfrog Glasgow City and move into second place in the league.

Speaking ahead of the game, Fran Alonso said: “It will be a very, very hard game. In my opinion we are still facing the best team in the country and I think they will be hurt after their last performance but that can make them more dangerous.

“Last year they lost heavily to Rangers and in the Champions League but they came back and won the league so I know they are used to winning. They have a strong mentality and a very experienced and knowledgeable coach and I expect a very hard game.

'They will be up for it but so are we, so I think it’ll be a very even game, but hopefully we control the little details more and we can get the three points because it’s a must-win game for both sides.'

The Celtic manager knows his side will have to be at their best against Glasgow City if they want to take all three points, and every member of the squad will have to be ready to play their part if required.

“Our depth of squad is very important,” Alonso said. “We always reward training and players go through different spells of form throughout the season which is normal, and our form has been very good, not only in terms of results, but our performances and clean-sheets and I’m pleased with how we have been in the last few games.

“I’m expecting another strong performance. It’ll be a battle on a small pitch that doesn’t really suit our style but I hope it’s a very exciting game and I hope it’s a Celtic win.”

Fran Alonso: We're looking forward to league clash with Glasgow City