Ange Postecoglou has shut down any thought of taking a "trial and error" approach as the Celtic boss looks to find a solution left by the long-term injury to Callum McGregor.
The Hoops host RB Leipzig at Parkhead on Tuesday night knowing a win could fire them back in with a chance of progressing to the last 16 of the Champions League or at the very least gaining third spot which would guarantee Europa League football beyond Christmas. However, the absence of McGregor in the midfield engine room is a major blow for the Scottish champions and their hopes of progressing in Europe.
Matt O'Riley stepped back into a deep-lying midfield role in the win over St Johnstone, while the likes of James McCarthy and Oliver Abildgaard will also hope for their chance to fill the void left by the crocked Celtic skipper. However, Postecoglou laughed off any notion he was taking a punt on his team selection with his trademark 'mate' catchphrase.
When asked about a 'trial and error' approach to his midfield, Postecoglou said: "I hope it's not trial and error, mate. I spend a hell of a lot of time thinking about football and what I do. There is a little bit of methodology that goes into it.
"I guess with Callum he has that experience at this level. He knows what is required to win a game in the Champions League and at international level. You can't replace that.
"You can only learn that by experience. That is something for the other guys to take forward and gain that experience, but in terms of our style of play I think we have players who can replace Callum."
He also admitted that Celtic were still on a Champions League learning curve going into the blockbuster clash with Leipzig: "That's kind of what you hope for, that as we have more experiences at this level, that we become more accustomed to this level and what it means, and the fine lines between success and not having success.
"But at the same time, it doesn't mean the challenge is any easier, because Leipzig are probably a better team today than they were in the first round. The one thing you know about this level, and that is what you need to get accustomed to, is that it is relentless. It is the highest level of club football so there are no easy games.
"You can play 100 games at Champions League level and you know the next one is still going to be difficult. That's the experience that you come through, that you go into every game understanding that.
"Maybe when you begin, you think it maybe gets easier. It doesn't. It stays exactly the same. It's why even some of the greatest sides haven't won it yet, because it's constantly demanding at this level."
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