News of Leigh Griffiths’ return to fitness ensured that it was an upbeat Celtic squad that arrived in Norway today.
The sight of the striker taking part in training this morning was greeted with joy by supporters with Griffiths bringing a natural balance to the side.
Tom Rogic, James Forrest and Jonny Hayes had all been suggested for the striking role but the return of Griffiths puts that argument to bed and allows Brendan Rodgers to plan for the match with some certainty.
Having a striker brings a natural balance and focus to the side allowing the midfielders to play their natural game of creating and converting chances.
Despite drawing the first leg 0-0 there are a number of recent examples of how Celtic have improved markedly over the two legs of a European tie at this stage of the season.
Saturday’s 5-0 win at Sunderland will have given the entire squad a boost with the form of Callum McGregor the main plus to emerge from the match.
The Rosenborg match will provide a real test of Rodgers resolve and the strength of a the treble winning squad without Moussa Dembele and Patrick Roberts.
The stakes are high with the rewards plentiful for success.
SCOTT BROWN
No one in Scottish football has greater experience than Broony.
After the loss to Lincoln Red Imps a year ago you’d have got long odds on him being one of the most valuable midfielders in the group phase of the Champions League but the Celtic skipper revels in adversity.
A driving performance from Brown will be essential to see off Rosenborg who won’t be slow to mix it physically with the experienced midfielder.
SCOTT SINCLAIR
Came in for some very close attention from the Rosenborg defence last week and missed out on having a natural striker to combine with.
Whatever they say Rosenborg are duty bound to be more attack minded in front of their own fans leaving gaps for Sinclair to exploit.
With Kieran Tierney providing support Sinclair will be able to move infield and ask questions of the Rosenborg defence.
JOZO SIMUNOVIC
Will have extra responsibility if he is paired alongside Kristoffer Ajer but shows signs of developing into a real leader.
He is more comfortable with the ball at his feet and has become the first choice central defender a year after ‘failing’ a medical to join Torino.
A clean sheet will complete half of the qualification job, shutting out the Rosenborg attack will put extra pressure on the home defenders.
STUART ARMSTRONG
Although it will be tempting to select Olivier Ntcham Armstrong delivered regularly for Rodgers last season- especially on the big occasions.
It’s only natural that a shadow is being cast by the contract issue but for 90 minutes the midfielder can concentrate on helping Celtic through and boosting his value at the same time.
Armstrong had to wait until late in last season’s campaign to get a taste of the Champions League- this match gives him the chance to cement a place in the side provided he’s not sold before the window closes.
CRAIG GORDON
A year ago it looked like he had earned Celtic a place in the group phase only to hand the gloves over to Dorus de Vries.
The former Hearts keeper battled his way back into the side and ended the season with a new contract following interest from Chelsea.
He is still prone to the occasional misjudgement but has the experience and ability to deal with the largely aerial threat from Rosenborg and provide the clean sheet needed to ensure progress.