Mowbray reveals Wenger respect

The latest all-British encounter in Europe's premier club competition was confirmed on Friday when the two sides were paired together in a play-off for a place in the group phase.

"I have huge respect for Arsene and the job he's done at Arsenal," Mowbray told his club's official website, www.celticfc.net. "He's had a lot of success at the club and has built a side that plays the game in the right way."

The former West Brom boss added: "They don't spend the millions on players that other English clubs do, but they play with a real style and always try to entertain. That's down to Arsene and his philosophies."

Mowbray's sentiments were echoed by assistant Mark Venus, who added: "Anyone who's a football purist has to have great respect for the job Arsene Wenger's done.

"He brings the young players through and he doesn't try to buy ready-made footballers to win leagues. I don't think he's got the finances to do that.

"I think his model - how he brings them through and how they play - everyone has to stand up and take notice of it.

"We admire it no end."