Lewis Ferguson is targeting a first career victory over Celtic when Bologna host the Scottish champions in Thursday's Europa League clash. The Scotland midfielder has faced Celtic 16 times, scoring seven goals but never winning. He admits the draw immediately caught his eye, viewing it as a crucial opportunity to help Bologna push for a top-eight finish in the league phase.

Ferguson's club situation adds intrigue. He's struggled for consistent starts under Bologna boss Vincenzo Italiano, a frustration for a player accustomed to being a regular. Despite this, he remains focused on the match, noting Celtic's strength despite recent coaching changes and acknowledging his own familiarity with many of their players from his time in Scotland.

The upcoming fixture carries significant personal motivation for Ferguson, who missed Euro 2024 due to a cruciate injury. He sees the World Cup next summer as a major target, using his current club challenges as fuel. He's not yet spoken with Scotland head coach Steve Clarke about his reduced role at Bologna but is determined to fight his way back into Italiano's starting XI.