The hosts are without their star striker after Gary Hooper failed to
recover from a knock, while the visitors have made a number of changes
from the side which beat Celta Vigo
Celtic boss Neil Lennon has handed starts to Georgios Samaras and Miku after Gary Hooper failed to recover from injury for their crucial Champions League clash against Barcelona.
The
Venezuelan has previously played against the Spanish giants during his
spell in La Liga with Getafe, while Greece international Samaras
impressed in the previous match between the two sides before going off
injured.
Highly rated Victor Wanyama - thought to be interesting
Manchester United - starts in the centre of midfield for the home side
alongside Scott Brown.
As for Barcelona, Tito Vilanova will be
hoping that current World Player of the Year Lionel Messi can add to his
two goals and two assists in this season's competition and secure their
passage through to the knock-out stages.
Youngster Marc Bartra
gets an opportunity to shine in the heart of the visitors' defence,
while Gerard Pique takes his place on the bench after a spell on the
sidelines.
Up front, Alexis Sanchez and Pedro will be expected to provide the width in their three-pronged attack alongside Messi.
Barcelona
currently sit top of Group G having won all three of their group
matches so far, including a dramatic last-gasp 2-1 victory over Celtic,
while Lennon's side are second with four points.
Celtic starting XI: Forster; Lustig, Ambrose, Wilson, Matthews; Commons, Wanyama, Ledley, Mulgrew; Miku, Samaras
Subs: Zaluska, Herron, Fraser, Kayal, McCourt, McGeouch, Watt
Barcelona starting XI: Valdes; Alves, Bartra, Mascherano, Alba; Xavi, Song, Iniesta; Alexis, Messi, Pedro
Subs: Pinto, Montoya, Pique, Dos Santos, Fabregas, Villa, Tello
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