Celtic have been warned that Iago Aspas remains a major threat at 39 as Celta Vigo prepare for Thursday’s Europa League clash at Parkhead.

The experienced forward is a familiar name to football supporters, and former team-mate Jordan Holsgrove insists he still has the quality to punish opponents.

Both clubs are searching for their first points of the league phase, making the meeting an important one for their qualification hopes.

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Aspas has contributed a goal and an assist in eight appearances this season, following a return of eight goals and six assists last term. That’s why Celtic cannot afford to assume his influence has faded with age.

Holsgrove, who played alongside him at Celta between 2020 and 2022, believes his former teammate remains particularly dangerous close to goal.

Speaking to Record Sport, the former Scotland Under-21 international said:

“For sure. He knows how to score goals and is an absolute legend of the club. The fans love him and the city loves him. He is such a good guy as well and is so humble and down to earth. But Celtic will have to watch out for him as he is so dangerous and creative in and around the box.”

The Hoops were ruthless in Sunday’s seven-goal victory over Hearts, but their opening two Europa League matches have brought seven goals conceded and no points.

They need to carry their attacking confidence into Thursday while giving Celta fewer opportunities than Ferencvaros and Benfica enjoyed.

Aspas is the sort of player who can exploit a moment’s hesitation. Keeping track of him around the penalty area will require concentration, particularly when Celtic lose possession and have to recover their shape.

Sunday gave supporters plenty of encouragement. Thursday demands a performance that combines that attacking purpose with greater defensive control.

Allowing Celta’s veteran talisman time to dictate things near goal would make an already difficult task harder.