Celtic will be tougher this season, says Dons boss McInnes
Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes admits the club cannot compete with Celtic's spending power as it is - so is not worried now that they stand to become £30million richer.
The Hoops have landed a huge Champions League windfall after qualifying for the money-spinning group stages.
Brendan Rodgers has already forked out more than £4million since taking over this summer and is expected to be handed more money to strengthen his squad before they take on Barcelona, Manchester City and Borussia Monchengladbach in Europe's top competition.
But McInnes reckons his side can still compete with the Scottish champions, despite the huge gulf in resources.
The Dons beat Celtic, under Ronny Deila, twice at Pittodrie last year and McInnes is looking to end a 12-year wait for victory in Glasgow's east end on Saturday by proving money does not always talk.
McInnes said: Celtic will still be on a high from qualifying and I think they deserve a lot of credit and congratulations. It's great we've got a representative from Scotland in the Champions League.
They have spent millions over the last couple of years. We've spent £175,000 on Kenny McLean.
They have added good players already. Kolo Toure is experienced, Scott SInclair has definitely given then something new and I think they'll sign another player for a few million pounds now they have the attraction of the Champions League.
So we can't really get caught up in how much Celtic and Rangers will spend.
I think Celtic are stronger this season. They have got their confidence going and the club seems more behind the manager. That makes them a more difficult opponent.
It's a challenge, but we've shown we can beat them before and I feel if we can get it right tactically and be fully concentrated we can get a result.''