Celtic face Valencia in the Europa League last-32 (Image: GETTY)
Celtic were today drawn against Valencia for there last-32 stage of the Europa League.
The Hoops were unseeded for the clash and have avoided a painful trip to Eastern Europe.
And while Valencia carry plenty of historical clout, ex-Hoops striker Hartson reckons Brendan Rodgers will be confident his side can beat Valencia come February.
“It’s a great trip and a fantastic place to play, Valencia,” Hartson said on BT Sport.
“It could have been tougher had they got Chelsea, Napoli or Inter.
“If they’d have drawn one of those you’d be worried.
Celtic have been backed by John Hartson to beat Valencia (Image: GETTY)
Valencia played Manchester United in the Champions League group stage this season (Image: GETTY)
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"But Celtic can go and be competitive against Valencia and hopefully get through on the strength of this Valencia team.”
Hartson played for Celtic the last time the Hoops met Valencia - in the 2001/02 UEFA Cup.
Valencia won the two-legged tie on penalties and Hartson doesn’t believe the current crop are remotely near as good as the team he faced.
“I don’t think Valencia are anywhere near the strength of team they were,” he added.