TIMES TALKER: What are best tactics for Barca?

FRUSTRATE says RONNIE CULLY

THE Barcelona team which arrives in Glasgow today will be reeling that they have been forced to travel without their icon, Lionel Messi.

Of course, they still have a galaxy of stars.

But, over the years, they have become ultra dependant on the world's top player, and his absence will have sewn a few seeds of doubt in their ranks.

If Celtic can repeat what they did last November, when they stifled Barca's creativity with a rigid, disciplined, defensive performance before picking them off at a set-piece, then when they made a mistake, another historic night can be enjoyed.

That would mean once again surrendering the bulk of possession to Barca.

But, so long as Neymar, Xavi, Iniesta and the Co. are playing in front of them and not through them, that will be a price worth paying.

PACE IS KEY says HUGH MacDONALD

ASKED if he had any surprise for Barca, Neil Lennon told the media: "Yes, I am not going to turn up."

The joke disguises the truth that the Celtic manager's options are limited.

He will play with a flat back four with two holding midfielders in Scott Brown and Charlie Mulgrew.

His three other midfielders will be asked to track back and be prepared to break quickly.

Celtic must frustrate Barca when the Catalans have the ball but they must use their limited possession carefully.

The best option is that Adam Matthews and James Forrest, both hopefully fit, can relieve pressure with their ability to run with the ball.

Georgios Samaras is crucial in forward areas with his capacity for holding the ball and winning headers at set-pieces.

For Celtic, it may be a night to rely on both pace and prayer.

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