David Ramos
Celtic must overcome injuries and their disappointing last second loss at the Camp Nou to try and keep their Round of 16 hopes alive
You could understand if Celtic might still be a little punch-drunk after their tremendous performance against Barcelona at the Camp Nou was erased by a last second winner. Despite that disappointment, the Scottish club remains in second place in the group and they still have a legitimate shot at getting out of the group.
For Celtic to repeat that performance (and hopefully improve on it), Neil Lennon is going to have to overcome a rash of injury issues. The potential loss of Georgios Samaras could be the biggest blow as the Greek forward was very effective against Barca at the Camp Nou. If Samaras can't go, look for 18-year-old Tony Watt to try to fill his proverbial shoes.
On Celtic's side is their home fans who were loud in Spain and should be in rare form back on their home turf at Celtic Park.
The big news for Barcelona is the potential return of Gerard Piqué from a foot injury. He's been training and it's really up to Tito Vilanova if he decides to start Piqué or stick with the effective Javier Mascherano/Marc Bartra combination that did so well against Celtic before. Alex Song is likely to start in the defensive midfield with Sergio Busquets suspended.
Celtic injuries and suspensions
Out: Emilio Izaguirre (hamstring), James Forrest (hamstring), Lassad Nouioui (groin). In doubt: Gary Hooper (hamstring), Georgios Samaras (ankle).
Barcelona injuries and suspensions
Out: Sergio Busquets (suspended), Adriano (leg). In Doubt: Lionel Messi (knock).
Yes, Messi did pick up a knock late in Barca's weekend match, but he should be good to go. Adriano is out for a couple weeks after injuring his leg against Celta Vigo last weekend. Celtic are without several players, but the biggest potential loss is Samaras who is still not 100% after injuring his ankle in the first match between these two teams.
Match Date/Time: 8:45 p.m. local, 2:45 p.m. ET
Venue: Celtic Park, Glasgow, Celtic
TV: FOX Sports Net (U.S.), Sky Sports 2 (U.K.), Sportsnet (Canada)
Online: FOX Soccer 2 Go (U.S.)
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