CELTIC captain Scott Brown reckons Craig Gordon is every bit as good a keeper as former Hoops heroes Artur Boruc and Fraser Forster.

And he has backed him to help the Bhoys enjoy success in Europe - just like his predecessors did.

Gordon was once again Man of the Match for Ronny Deila's side in their narrow 2-1 win over Astra Giurgiu on Thursday night.

Brown said: "Craig is a world-class goalie and yet again he had a great game against Astra. He's getting better with every game.

"I knew how good Craig was from our time playing together at Scotland. But now his shot-stopping, reactions and his ability to come for crosses seem to be improving every week. His kicking is brilliant and he is calm and composed.

"We always have that belief that if someone gets one-on-one with him that Craig will make the save."

Brown continued: "Who would have thought we'd get a £9million keeper for nothing? It's a great bit of business. Craig has also lifted the camp as he is a great lad.

"Big Fraser was also unbelievably good. If you are comparing both of them, it's hard to say who's better, although Fraser is a bit younger.

"I also count myself fortunate to have played with Artur Boruc.

"Those guys don't have many weaknesses, that's for sure. It's an amazing run of keepers for Celtic.

"A lot of our good European results in my time here have been down to our great keepers.

"There are no easy games in Europe. Other teams will create chances but, thankfully, we have another great goalie.

"If they get past our defence we know we can rely on the big man."