samaras targets 24 points in title run-in

David Friel
GREEK striker Georgios Samaras has set a 24-point target for Celtic as the reigning champions bid to end the season with a perfect record in their eight remaining SPL games.

At present, Celtic trail leaders Rangers by six points in the race for the championship, but with two derbies looming at Celtic Park, there is still all to play for.

And Samaras, currently on loan from Manchester City, is full of belief that Celtic can end up champions – providing they finish the season with an eight-game winning streak.

“We are under pressure now but we must show a lot of character and focus on the games,” said Samaras.

“If we win all the games I think we have a good chance. All we can do is work hard and try to have a 100 per cent record in the last eight games.

“At the end of that, we will see what we get if we manage to win the games. If we do get eight wins, then we have done the job we set for ourselves at this point and the rest will take care of itself.”

Samaras, with four goals for the Hoops so far, has become a fans’ favourite since arriving at Celtic and insists it’s been an honour to play and score for a club of this stature.

“It’s always nice to score goals and, of course, when you play in front of a full Celtic Park, it’s a great feeling to score,” said the Greece star, who grabbed his first home goal in the recent 2-1 win over Inverness Caledonian Thistle.

“Even away from home the fans always travel to support us and sometimes it’s like playing a home game. It’s the best feeling in the world to score a goal – home or away.”