Celtic are today celebrating their place in the group stages of the Champions League.

Former Hoops favourite Henrik Larsson and his Barcelona team-mates defeated Arsenal 2-1 in last night's final in Paris to hand the Hoops a €14 million ticket into Europe's elite.

The result means Arsenal, who finished fourth in the  Premiership, will have to play in the third qualifying round. Had they won the final against Barcelona, it would have meant Gordon Strachan's side would have had to play a qualifier.

It is a major boost for the Scottish Premier League champions, who also received further good news this week with confirmation they will be in Pot 2 for next season's draw.

And the Hoops can thank Sweden striker Larsson for his contribution to the Spanish giant's famous victory.

The Parkhead legend came on as a second-half substitute with Barcelona trailing 1-0 to 10-man Arsenal and set up both of his side's goals to ensure the Champions League trophy would be heading back to the Nou Camp.

The Celtic board could now hand manager double-winning Gordon Strachan more transfer funds in the knowledge they will receive at least €14 million from their group matches.