Johansen says Celtic flop always had quality

Celtic and Norway midfielder Stefan Johansen believes Celtic flop Jo Inge Berget always possessed the quality to be a good player.

The Hoops player defended his fellow countrymen’s time at Cardiff and Celtic and believes he is now showing his real quality.

Speaking on Norwegian television, Johansen says the Malmo player needs one thing.

There has never been any doubt about the quality he has. He is a fantastic player, but like everyone else he needs confidence.

He had a tough time at Cardiff, so he came to Celtic and stayed at my house for a few months.

Berget bit back at Celtic having scored two vital away goals in the first-leg for Malmo that ultimately sent Celtic packing following their dismal second-leg performance.

Now he’s come to Malmo and become a new player, you can see what confidence does.

He was also on target for the national team and inspired his team to a 2-0 win over Croatia after scoring the first and seeing his shot deflected into the Croatian net for the second.

Johansen and Berget are helping spur on Norway to their first appearance in the European Championships since 2000, and only their second ever.

There is also the possibility that the two sides could face off once again if Malmo finishes third and Celtic qualify from their group.

Both were handed tough groups in Europe this season after Celtic were drawn alongside Ajax, Fenerbahce and Molde. While the Swedish champions will face Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Shakhtar Donetsk in their Champions League group.