He’s starred for the Caltex Socceroos, won the Old Firm derby and is in sensational form but Tom Rogic knows he’ll face a massive test against Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday morning (AEST).
In a huge occasion for the 23-year-old playmaker, Rogic and the Hoops open their UCL campaign at the home of the Catalan giants.
Celtic come into the clash on the back of an unbeaten start to the season in Scotland, including the weekend’s 5-1 drubbing of city rivals Rangers, while Barca slumped to a shock home defeat to Alaves.
But that was an understrength Barca side with Rogic and his team-mates bracing for a rapid response against the likes of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar.
“They are one of the best sides in the world, we are aware of the quality they have individually and as a squad,” Rogic said at the official pre-match press conference.
“Obviously [the Alaves defeat] wasn’t ideal for them but they are a top side and they will want to bounce back so we are wary of that and ready for the challenge.
“We know it is going to be difficult but we are full of confidence at the moment and we have reasons to believe that we have qualities to get the result.
“We performed well at the weekend and momentum has been building for some time. We are in a good place at the moment and we are ready to come here.”
Rogic has enjoyed a superb start to the season under Brendan Rodgers and is relishing this opportunity and has urged his team-mates to embrace the challenge.
"It’s something that’s pretty special as a player and more than anything, it’s something to look forward to and enjoy,” the former Mariners and Victory star said.
“That’s why we play football for nights like tomorrow night.
“These are special occasions and as a team we are looking to enjoy it. It’s just exciting.”
