Celtic manager Martin O'Neill admitted that he is sorely tempted to hand star striker Henrik Larsson a starting role in the UEFA Cup quarter-final, first leg clash with Liverpool, despite the Swede's lack of match fitness.
Larsson has only just returned to training since recovering from a fractured jaw, and with Chris Sutton suffering from a groin injury, O'Neill hinted that Larsson would start alongside John Hartson against the Reds.
The Celtic boss said "Henrik's done a few days training since Sunday and he's not feeling too bad, He's had a few crunch challenges in terms of using his head and he is feeling very good within himself."
"He is fit and raring to go and ready for action. If he is feeling all right and up to it then I will have to give it serious consideration. I have been very pleased with him in the last three or four days because he has done well and with such a big game coming up he has put himself into contention. The doctors, surgeon and the physio are all very pleased so that's a good sign," he added.
While Larsson looks certain to play some role in the match, either as a substitute or starter, Sutton's fitness remains a doubt. "He has a groin problem at the minute which is a concern We will see how things are tomorrow - I've not even thought about the team yet." O'Neill said. "I'll see how Chris is before the game, he added. But Henrik is in good nick and John Hartson is a definite starter."
Filed by Rob Wright
