Celtic: Manager Deila insists Euro draw 'could be worse'

The Champions League qualifier against KR Reykjavik will be Ronny Deila's first official match in charge of Celtic

Manager Ronny Deila declared himself satisfied with Celtic's Champions League qualifying draw, after they were paired with KR Reykjavik of Iceland.

The sides meet in the second round of qualifying for Europe's elite competition.

"It could be worse and it could be better. It's an okay draw," said Deila.

"They are a good team, Icelandic football has improved a lot so we have to treat them with respect, but of course we are favourites."

The Scottish champions are due to entertain Reykjavik in the first leg on 15 or 16 July at Murrayfield, as Celtic Park is being used for the Commonwealth Games, with the return the following week.

Celtic have, however, revealed that talks are ongoing with a view to swapping the fixtures.

Deila insisted he is "positive" about playing at the home of Scottish Rugby, and said it will be "exciting for the fans".

The Icelandic champions have already played nine games of their league campaign, and currently sit fourth in the table, three points off top spot.

And when asked if that is an advantage for Reykjavik, Deila said: "It will be, but we have a very good squad and a very good team, and some players had an international at the start of June.

"We have four [friendly] games until the qualifier so we are going to be as fit as possible.

"Celtic have done very well in the Champions League and we have a good chance to go through, but we have to respect them."

Deila, who will be taking charge of his first official match when his side meets Reykjavik, revealed Celtic have "just started" the recruitment process.

And while talks are continuing with a view to signing former Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon, the manager does not expect to have new players on board in time for the Reykjavik match.

"We will get the squad better in time, look around us and find the best players for Celtic," added the Norwegian.

"The most important thing is to keep the players. We know this team has got into the Champions League before, and done well in the league, so that brings confidence to me. Then we can fill in from that, it's a good start."

Reykjavik have never got beyond the second round of Champions League qualifying, and lost 9-1 to HJK Helsinki at that stage in 2012/13.