Novo: I'm rooting for Celtic in Europe

Sep 21 2008 By Gordon Waddell

BIG-HEARTED Rangers star Nacho Novo has revealed he's backing Celtic's Euro bid this season - despite being public enemy No.1 with their fans.

The Spaniard has been the subject of a vile campaign at the hands of Hoops fans, forcing him to have his home guarded after his address was published on the internet.

He's also had to endure being on the receiving end of a hate song calling for his death. However, he insists he's not bitter and is still throwing his weight behind them and Motherwell to fill the void left in Gers' own season after their embarrassing Champions League exit in Kaunas.

And he claimed he's not shouting them on in the hope they burn themselves out for the SPL campaign either.

The 29-year-old said: "It's not about being tired. This time last year we were both involved in the Champions League and everyone saw how good that was. It helped take Scottish football to a higher level.

"I want what's best for Scottish football. Celtic are our rivals but I always like to see the teams from this country do well in Europe.

"I watched all the games on Tuesday and Wednesday night, I was flicking between them.

"And on Thursday I watched Motherwell in Nancy - the keeper was fantastic.

"Obviously losing 1-0 is disappointing but they still have a chance."

Novo, like Walter Smith, admitted it was a painful experience facing up to a free Euro midweek after their astonishing 19-game run to the UEFA Cup Final last season.

But as he shaped up for their SPL showdown with Well today, the striker shrugged: "I still caught all the matches on TV.

"I love the game too much not to tune in - even if it made my week harder.

"It's always hard watching European fixtures and not playing. It's disappointing.

"At Rangers and Celtic you need to play these matches every year. You want to be in the Champions League because it's good for the game here."