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Luis Enrique hails Celtic Park atmosphere as one of Europe’s best

Luis Enrique conte tottenham
Barcelona's Coach Luis Enrique during training (REUTERS)
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Celtic will play their first Champions League group stage match in three years when they face Barcelona at Celtic Park on Tuesday.

Barcelona manager Luis EnriqueBarcelona manager Luis Enrique

Barcelona manager Luis Enrique is preparing his side for their opening Champions League group stage match away to Celtic on Tuesday evening (7.45pm kick-off).

It will be the first time the 2015 winners have played a competitive match at Parkhead since their 1-0 victory over the Hoops in 2013.

The sides often seem to attract each other in the competition as the season before Celtic achieved one of their most famous victories in recent times with a 2-1 home triumph over Barca.

Tony Watt celebrates scoring for Celtic in the famous win over BarcelonaTony Watt celebrates scoring for Celtic in the famous win over Barcelona

The Catalan club have won four of the previous 11 Champions League titles meaning Celtic’s return to Europe’s top club competition could hardly be more difficult.

But Enrique has remained quiet on his side’s chances at Parkhead on Tuesday and was quick to praise Celtic following their 5-1 derby victory over Rangers at the weekend.

“We are happy to play again a right and historic team like Celtic,” the former Spain international said on Sky Sports News HQ.

“We will be happy to go to one of the best stadiums in Europe in terms of atmosphere knowing that their fans will have a great sporting image and offer their full support to the team.”

Celtic fansCeltic fans

Celtic have been given a boost ahead of the match as captain Scott Brown is expected to start despite picking up a knock against Rangers on Saturday.

However some not so good news from a Celtic point of view is that Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi is likely to feature at Parkhead after coming off in Barcelona’s shock defeat to Alaves at the Camp Nou during the weekend.

With Luis Suarez and Neymar to contend with as well, it’s fair to say the Bhoys could have their work cut out on Tuesday.

Luis Suarez Barcelona celebratingLuis Suarez celebrating

Do Celtic stand a chance against Barcelona?