ANTHONY STOKES believes the expectation and pressure on Celtic to get into the Champions League is what can inspire them to match the achievement of last season – or even surpass it.

And the Republic of Ireland striker wants to be the man handed the task of firing the club past Elfsborg and into next month's play-offs.

Stokes is fully aware that, having reached the last 16 last term, there is an almost unhealthy expectation among some sections of the fans that it will be plain sailing to the group stage this season.

He can see the folly of such thinking, but refuses to let it place any more pressure on their shoulders.

He said: "There is always an expectation from the fans at this club.

"Rightly so, because it is a massive club and we need that competition of playing in the Champions League.

"But it's easier said than done.

"Last year was an exceptional season. We will try to replicate this year, if not go better. But it is going to be tough against Elfsborg."

With the return leg being played on an artificial surface in Boras next Wednesday, where Elfsborg enjoy a tremendous record, Stokes knows the importance of carrying an advantage from tonight's game.

"We always fancy our chances playing here," he said. "We will obviously want to take as big a lead as possible over to Sweden for the second game."

Neil Lennon has no doubts about the 25-year-old's ability – but has thrown down the gauntlet to him to become much more consistent.

After failing to find the net in the 5-0 aggregate win over Cliftonville in the previous round, tonight's first-leg tie against the Swedes could provide the perfect platform for Stokes to launch his bid to take over from Gary Hooper as the go-to goalscorer.

The ankle injury he sustained during a friendly match against Inter Milan 12 months ago ruled him out of the first half of the season, including all the group stage.

Stokes would hate to miss out again this time around, but refuses to let that hold him back.

He said: "You can't really afford to focus on that. If you start to think about things like that, it can play on your mind.

"I didn't think my ankle problem would take so long to clear up. Thank goodness it's behind me now."