Michael Owen: Europa League Matchday 1

Spurs come into their first European fixture of the season after an indifferent start to their domestic campaign. Jose Mourinho’s men will see this as a more than achievable 3 points, and possibly more significantly, as a springboard into their next Premier League fixture against Burnley. On their day LASK can be a tricky side to play against, but I feel Tottenham will have too much here.

It’s great to see Dundalk competing in the Europa League. Visitors Molde travel here with plenty of European experience and they should provide a tough test for the Irishmen. That said, I do think the home side will be right up for this and feel that the most likely outcome is a draw.

The Gunners are back on the European trail as they travel to Austria to play Rapid Vienna. Mikel Arteta is most likely to make some changes here, and with his side playing well, I can see the Londoners coming away with maximum points.

Rangers travel to Belgium with the wind in their sails after a comprehensive win at Celtic Park. The Gers dispatched Galatasaray in their final qualifying round and despite Standard Liege coming into this undefeated in their last 4 matches, I reckon Steven Gerrard’s men could well get a point here.

The Foxes welcome Zorya to the King Power looking to shake off a couple of poor domestic results. Jamie Vardy could return here, and if Leicester can rediscover their early season form, I think they’ll take the points.

Serie A table-toppers AC Milan travel to Celtic Park in tremendous form. The Italians have made an excellent start domestically and will be looking to extend that here. Celtic will still be licking their wounds after Saturday’s 2-0 home defeat to Rangers, and without the noise of the home crowd, I can see Milan taking full advantage.