Martin O’Neill’s last experience of a European game as Celtic manager came in December 2004 when his side drew 0-0 at home to AC Milan.

Nearly 21 years later, the Irishman will be in the dugout again for Thursday night’s UEFA Europa League clash against FC Midtjylland.

The Danish side are top of the league table in the competition, having won their opening three games, while Celtic have had one win, one draw and one defeat from their three games.

And on the back of victories over Falkirk in the league and Rangers in the League Cup semi-final, the Celtic squad go into the game in Denmark with a renewed sense of confidence.

For Martin O’Neill, it’s a contest he’s looking forward to, but he is under no illusions as to how tough FC Midtjylland will be.

Speaking ahead of the game, the Celtic manager said: “Obviously you’ll get confidence from beating your big rivals, so that was great for us, but I’ve seen FC Midtjylland play because I was covering their game for TV a few weeks ago, and they’re very strong.

“I thought they were great against Nottingham Forest away from home, against a Forest side that are actually quite a physical side themselves, and not only are they very good in set-pieces, they’re also a really talented side.

“They were excellent on the evening (FC Midtjylland won 3-2) and it’s no surprise that they’ve got full points from their games.

“We’ve played well in the two games and we got a few goals, so that helps, but tomorrow evening will be a totally different ball game.”

Watch the manager’s full press conference

Assessment of FC Midtjylland

Update on the Celtic squad

Celtic’s European history

Own memories of European games

Martin O'Neill: We face a tough test against a very good FC Midtjylland side