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Celtic manager Gordon Strachan paid tribute to his players after their extra-time defeat to Milan at the San Siro.

“I’m very proud of them,” he said. “If there was a Champions League trophy for guts and determination then we must be in with a chance of winning it.

“There were two great teams – one with more technique, one with incredible heart, will and determination.

“If we can improve on technique we’ll be a good side. That’s the vision – we’ve got an incredible will to win.”

Celtic were under pressure for much of the game and goalkeeper Artur Boruc made three outstanding saves in 90 minutes, while goal-scorer Kaka also hit the crossbar.

But Strachan’s side had two legitimate claims for a penalty turned dow, althoufg Strachan refused to complain about the performance of the referee.

“I don’t want to sour the night with headlines about referees,” he added.

“The night belongs to the players who played the game and supporters of both sides. I’ll leave the rest for everyone to get on with.”

Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted Celtic had given his team a real battle.

“We knew it would be tough, but I thought we coped with it well,” he said.

“We gave away little and created a lot. We suffered at times, but the joy of going through makes it worthwhile.”

Asked if he thought Milan could win the Champions League, he replied: “With Real Madrid, Inter Milan and Barcelona out, it shows that there are no guarantees in the Champions League.

“Anyone of the eight teams left has a chance. It’s very open.”


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