LASK boss rejected Russia move as Celtic Champions League showdown looms

LASK boss Dietmar Kuhbauer has revealed he rejected an offer to manage in Russia as he prepares to lead his side into their huge Champions League showdown with Celtic.

Martin O’Neill’s side welcome the Austrian champions to Celtic Park on Wednesday night for the first leg of a play-off which will decide who reaches the lucrative Champions League league phase.

Kuhbauer arrives in Glasgow having enhanced his reputation considerably last season after guiding LASK to their first Austrian Bundesliga title in 61 years.

The former Austria international was subsequently linked with a move away and has now confirmed he received a concrete offer from a Russian club.

However, Kuhbauer insists leaving LASK was never seriously considered, with the opportunity to lead the club into the Champions League for the first time among the reasons behind his decision.

He said via The National: “Yes, there was a concrete offer.

“The offer came from a club in Russia.

“But coaching there is not something I seriously considered.

“Without sounding arrogant, I don’t want to jump at the first offer and I am focussed on improving what we did last season and try and ensure LASK have a good run in the Champions League this season.

“I’m committed to LASK. I feel really comfortable here and now we have the chance to play European football.

“So I’m not thinking about leaving here for a second.”