Nakamura warns Celtic about 'divers'

MILAN - CELTIC'S Shunsuke Nakamura has spiced up today's Champions League clash with AC Milan by accusing the Italian club's strikers of diving.

The Japan international has first-hand knowledge of Italian football, after three years with Serie A side Reggina.

He is warning his teammates to be very careful when making their tackles at the San Siro.

'I'm not one to dive, but their strikers will be looking for penalties,' he said, ahead of the tie which is tipped in AC Milan's favour after the 0-0 first-leg draw in Glasgow.

'If the strikers go past you, all it takes is the slightest touch and they will hit the floor.

'This is where Scottish and Italian football differ. You don't often see diving in Scotland, and if somebody does, the crowd shout 'cheat'.'

Milan's Massimo Oddo feels his side are too strong for Celtic, who have lost 11 of their last 12 away matches in the competition.

'It will be difficult, but I feel we are favourites - because we are AC Milan, because we play at home and because of the result from the first leg. We believe in our strengths,' he said.

Milan have not failed to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League since the 2001-02 season, while Celtic have never been this far in the competition before.

Milan's striker Alberto Gilardino insists his team will not underestimate Celtic, who are 19 points ahead of Rangers at the top of the Scottish Premier League and could wrap up the title this weekend.

'They play well,' he said.

AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE