CELTIC'S Europa League opponents have been forced to deny they will carve up results in their Group... despite both being bankrolled and named after Red Bull.

The Hoops face German giants RB Leipzig and also play against Red Bull Salzburg from Austria in the Group Stages.

With both sides heavily backed by energy drinks giants Red Bull, there was criticism in Germany and Austria after the draw with complaints about commercialism taking over football.

And UEFA only relaxed their rules last year about clubs backed by the same company being allowed to play each other in European competition.

Now Red Bull chief executive Dietrich Mateschitz has been forced to deny there will be any collusion between the sides when they face off in Celtic's section.

He said: "May the better team win. I am totally happy about this draw.

"It's a super draw for both teams.

"It will be good for sports and entertainment. It's great story for everyone in our family and it will be interesting and fun."

And the German side's managing director, Oliver Mintzlaff, has told critics that any suggestion of an agreement between the sides is nonsense.

He pointed out: "The very idea of collusion between two clubs is not compatible with our values.

"We're in sport and fair play applies. It's very important people know this.

"This summer we have been approved by UEFA again without conditions."

Salzburg sporting director Christoph Freund added: "It's always special against German teams and in this case it's even more special."