EYES ALREADY BEYOND THE PRIZE AT CELTS

IT may seem daft to say in March, with a quarter of the season still to play but such is Celtic's dominance that attention is already shifting to next season and another crack at the Champions League.

- BY ROBBIE COPELAND

This term's knockout run gave them a taste of real progress, with 12 points from eight games and a near-miss against Bayern Munich.

But they can't plateau there. Now it’s about proving they belong at this level consistently and building a lasting presence among Europe’s elite.

Scotland's regressing co-efficient means Celtic no longer have an automatic league-phase spot and will have to qualify.

They'll likely be seeded for a favourable draw but it still means their European season starts weeks earlier than usual, making early transfer business crucial.

Jota's arrival in January and Kieran Tierney’s return mean two key areas are covered, but midfield depth remains an issue, and there’ still no natural alternative to Adam Idah up front. At least two new signings - secured swiftly to allow time to bed in - will be vital.