RB Leipzig star treating Celtic clash 'like a final' in battle for second place

The striker conceded that it will take a "miracle" to progress from the group stages if they don't win against Celtic but is hopeful his side can turn their fortunes with a win over Ange Postecoglou's side.

The German club currently sit bottom of Group F after losses against Shakhtar Donetsk and Real Madrid.

Celtic are one point ahead in third with a point after a draw against the Ukranian side last time out.

For Silva, Wednesday night's meeting between Celtic and RB Leipzig could be make or break in the competition.

He told the Daily Record: “After our first two Champions League games, this is like a final for us. If we want to have a chance of qualifying, we’re obliged to beat Celtic.

“They’re a good team, very similar to us in terms of level. But they have one point and we have zero.

“So this is the moment to change how the group looks. A victory for us on Wednesday would be so important.

“This group is very strong but we haven’t shown our true level yet. In the next four matches, we need to win the two at home and then fight on our travels.

“Celtic’s draw with Shakhtar shows they’re a good team. So we’re prepared for a difficult game. We need our supporters and a big atmosphere because our European future depends on this match."

Leipzig have endured a tough start to the season as they sit bottom in the Champions League and in 10th in the Bundesliga.

Silva cites injury issues as part of the problem behind a difficult run but went on to back the squad to bounce back.

He said: “If we go into the last three games with zero or one point, we’ll need a miracle to continue in the Champions League. Real Madrid are strong but there is a battle for second place. The chances are open for Shakhtar, Celtic and ourselves.

“But we have to win our home games to have a chance. We’ve had physical problems in our squad which have damaged performances so far this season.

“But we have the character and quality to fix this situation.”