Kluivert's fitness warning

Kluivert has been sidelined with a knee injury since the end of January and was progressing towards a comeback for Thursday's second leg meeting against Celtic.

But while Kluivert has now recovered from his injury setback, Barca doctor Jordi Ardevol feels it would be unwise to gamble on the Dutchman's fitness.

With the striker short on match sharpness, Ardevol believes Kluivert's return to action should be put on hold until next week.

"Kluivert has recovered from his injury but now he is being called upon to do more physical work," said Ardevol.

"To play against Celtic is too soon and against Betis (on Sunday) it would be the same."

Barcelona will also be missing the suspended Javier Saviola against Celtic, meaning Luis Enrique could be pressed into a striking role although Luis Garcia may be fit after a muscular problem.

Key defender Carles Puyol is also expected to be available for the encounter against The Bhoys after shaking off a hip injury he suffered against Real Sociedad at the weekend.