Ange Postecoglou shoots down Rangers motivation claims as Celtic boss looks to Europe

Ange Postecoglou has dismissed suggestions that Rangers' European run will provide extra motivation for Celtic next season.

Gers stand on the brink of history as they take on Eintracht Frankfurt in the Europa League Final on Wednesday.

Gio van Bronckhorst's side have overcome the likes of Borussia Dortmund, Braga and RB Leipzig to book their place in Seville.

Celtic, meanwhile, tumbled out of three European competitions this season but regained their status as champions of Scotland.

The Hoops got their hands on the Premiership trophy yesterday and it means they can now look forward to guaranteed Champions League football next term.

But Postecoglou insists Rangers' Euro exploits won't fuel his team as he looks to build a squad capable of competing on the continental stage.

He said: "I just don't use any other club as a reference point for us.

“I said it a few weeks back and I think people took it the wrong way when I said if I need inspiration, I just need to look at the trophy we've won in Europe.

"That's not because I am trying to downplay anybody else's achievements. You don't need any other reference points. The reference points are in this building. I see them every day.

"I met Martin O'Neill on Thursday night and he took this club to the UEFA Cup final, that's our reference points.

"That's the level we have been in and want to continue to be in.

"I don't want to downplay Rangers' achievements or any other club's but I am not going to use them as reference point to who we are or how good we can be.

"I know what we need to be, it's everywhere I look at this football club.”