Celtic are going into a massive Champions League clash with Juventus on the back of three consecutive victories; but form has not exactly played a part in The Bhoys' march to the last 16 of Europe. Celtic beat the might of Barcelona just four days after being held by Dundee Utd, and qualified by disposing of Spartak Moscow following a failure to break down Arbroath, who currently lie fourth in the Scottish Second Division. The Serie A leaders must be wary as they travel to Glasgow, and will not be taking The Hoops for granted.

Neil Lennon's charges are hindered by the possibility of missing Georgios Samaras and Efe Ambrose, and are waiting until just before kick-off to make the call. The latter arrived in Scotland this morning after returning from international duty. Lennon anounced "We will give Georgios as much time as is needed. He has been doing pretty aggressive rehabilitation work and we are hopeful he will be okay... If not, then I have a very strong squad and we will have him fit for the second leg."

Gary Hooper, who was sought by the Italian side in January will head the Celtic attack otherwise. And they are boosted by Emilio Izaguirre's recovery from a knee injury. Fraser Forster will again be key to keep out the threat Juventus will pose up front. But the key is Victor Wanyama. He has been a sensation for the club. To win the match, Wanyama will have to pull the strings. It is a young side with a young manager. They have little to fear and less to lose.

The Old Lady will go to Parkhead full of confidence after eliminating champions Chelsea, but much of Europe's elite have fallen at this hurdle in previous years. There is nothing quite like the atmosphere at 'Paradise' on a big European night. For an opposition player, walking out the tunnel into the famous arena with 60,000 scarves in the air and 'You'll Never Walk Alone' booming around the stadium is nothing short of intimidating. It is amazing what a difference the crowd can make. The last time Juventus visited Celtic Park was in 2001. Celtic left with a 4-3 victory, but Juventus took the tie on away goals.

Celtic have been a breath of fresh-air to the Champions League this season. They defy the notion that money talks in the modern game, emerging from the doldrums of a financially ravaged domestic league.

Natural footballing logic would suggest that Celtic have no hope tonight, but Lennon's men have not adhered to logic thus far in the season. Written off by most even before the tough draw was made, The Hoops go into this encounter as massive underdogs, but belief and passion can see them through, and don't be surprised if they will be heading to Turin with more than pride to play for.

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Brian Barry
Student and Sports Journalist. Follow on Twitter @briangbarry Contact at [email protected]