“This phase is the true test of how far we have come”

Celtic have made a 100 percent start to their domestic season – they have scored 17 goals and conceded just one in six games – and Brendan Rodgers' team are full of confidence, energy and tremendous momentum.

Tonight, however, a very different challenge begins as the Bhoys return to European football in the new-look Champions League.

This phase will really test how far we have come in the season since Rodgers returned to the boss's chair, and it will also be an opportunity for the manager to come to terms with a European record that is in stark contrast to his successes at domestic level.

To clarify, he has taken charge of 18 games for Celtic in the Champions League group stage. He has only won two.

However, the hope – and I dare say the expectation – is that today's encounter with Slovan Bratislava will add another result to the list of successes.

Let us not be fooled: if we want to have real ambitions to join the European elite, a victory over the Slovaks is simply a must.

And while our recent record gives us no right to expect victory against any European opposition, this dynamic-looking Celtic side, bolstered by a number of clever signings over the summer, can be confident of picking up three points at a packed Celtic Park.

With all due respect to the Slovaks, we will soon face tougher tests, as our next three European Cup matches will be against Borussia Dortmund, Atalanta and Leipzig.

For this reason alone, Celtic are obliged to secure victory tonight and provide a solid foundation for their remaining seven games.

It's hard to believe, but Celtic have never won an opening game in the Champions League in 12 attempts.

However, things seem to be changing at Celtic Park under Rodgers' leadership and let's hope this record is one of them.

Tino can be found at The Celtic Exchange.