Celtic catch a break as M’Vila is given night off update

Senior Sports Writer

Thursday 20 October 2011

Frederic Antonetti, the Rennes coach, will rest midfielder Yann M'Vila against Celtic tonight when the two clubs meet in the Europa League.

Frederic Antonetti believes his young Rennes side have improved since they faced Atletico Madrid in the Europa League earlier this season. Picture: SNS

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The omission has come as a surprise given the form of the 21-year-old, whose tenacious performances for the French side have led to interest from a number of leading clubs around Europe.

However, Antonetti insisted his decision is not intended as a slight on their opponents, nor the competition, rather it is designed to protect M’Vila from burn out. The Rennes coach views the Ligue 1 campaign as his priority this season and will hold his midfielder -- who has a price tag of £34m -- in reserve for the return to domestic action at the weekend.

“We have to take into consideration that we are playing every three days, and Yann is playing more than most, including his appearances for the national side,” he said. “We also need a presence in midfield for a game like this.”Antonetti has not given up hope of qualifying from the group, even though they currently share bottom spot with Celtic having collected just one point from their opening two matches. The Frenchman believes the competition has already brought its rewards as it has provided a springboard for young players to push for a regular starting place in a side which has risen to fifth place in the league.“Some of them have already progressed since playing against Atletico Madrid last month. This is very pleasing as a coach,” he said.Antonetti appreciates his side are facing a very different challenge tonight. He admires the physical aspect of Scottish football, but does not expect Celtic to rely on robust tactics in Brittany.“They have no particular style,” he said. “It is similar to that played in Europe. At times they can resort to a long-ball game, but can play other styles as well. It’s not just the kick and rush you expect from British clubs.”Despite the fact both teams are in desperate need of a victory to move into contention for a qualifying position in Group I, Antonetti expects an expansive game. “In Europe, all games are open. That’s the interesting aspect of it,” he said.Antonetti smiled when asked if he had watched Celtic’s awful first-half display against Kilmarnock on Saturday, but also he also have noted the Parkhead side’s resurgence in the second half. Likewise, the mention of Celtic’s poor way record in Europe -- which stands at just one win in 31 games -- was dismissed as irrelevant. Antonetti is only interested in their current form.Of more concern to the Rennes coach, though, is the heavy burden which he believes all French clubs carry with them when they participate in European competition. “There is a need for French football to lose its complex and to rid themselves of their lack of confidence,” he said.

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Celtic catch a break as M’Vila is given night off update

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