LEIGH Griffiths is unconcerned about playing in a Champions League qualifier against Linfield in Belfast without any Celtic fans cheering him on.

 

The Scottish champions confirmed yesterday they will not take any tickets for Windsor Park on Friday, July 14, if Linfield beat La Fiorita of San Marino in the first qualifying round due to security concerns.

 

But Griffiths, the former Hibernian player, doesn't expect to be any more intimidated than he is when he plays against Hearts at Tynecastle.

 

He said: “If Celtic don’t want to take tickets then they don’t want to take tickets. It’s all about keeping the fans safe.

 

“We know how Linfield are - it’s one of the games we have to do professionally, get the win and look forward to the home leg.”

 

“I go Tynecastle - that’s worse. Going to Tynecastle is worse than any place I have ever been.

 

“It’s directed at me and Broony (Scott Brown)! We know it will be a hostile environment, but if they do get through hopefully it’s about us.

 

"If we put in a professional performance then hopefully we can come in with a decent lead and we look forward to the home leg.

 

“When I first went to Tynecastle I couldn’t buy a win and then we had two draws and a win with Hibs. Ever since I’ve not been beaten. Good omens”