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Monday 20 October 2008

Celtic face injury crisis ahead of Old Trafford visit

Celtic are facing the prospect of going into Tuesday's Champions League Battle of Britain tie against Manchester United with a drastically depleted squad.

The major concerns for Gordon Strachan are in the striking department with Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink, Georgios Samaras and Chris Killen all set to miss the match through injury.

Strachan will also be sweating on the fitness of Gary Caldwell and Marc Crosas after they both picked up injuries during the team's 2-1 win over Inverness today.

Strachan said: "It is hugely disappointing to be without Jan and Georgios.

"We have also lost Chris Killen, who is a very good player, so we are without three physical strikers who give you lots of options.

"I think when you go to Old Trafford you want to have a full selection fit.

"When you look at the team, the speed and the ability is good but the physical side is a problem. I think it was part of the problem today (at Inverness).''

Georgios Samaras will be a massive loss to the Scottish champions.

The Greek international has been in terrific form this season but he will undergo a cartilage operation in Dublin tomorrow after returning from playing in his country's 2-1 defeat to Switzerland on Wednesday with the injury.

Strachan explained: "He didn't think there was a problem but there is. He will have a cartilage operation in Dublin tomorrow.

"How long he is out for will depend on how the operation goes and the size of the tear but hopefully it won't be too long.''

The Celtic boss is also concerned about the chances of Gary Caldwell making the match against Sir Alex Ferguson's side.

Strachan added: "If you ask Gary, he would say his chances of making it on Tuesday are 100%.

"He said that at half-time today but then he had to come off. It is a deep cut he has in an awkward place.

"He had to have two or three stitches on his foot so he is another one we will have to keep an eye on.''

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