The New Nation - Internet Edition

AFP, Glasgow

Celtic manager Gordon Strachan says he already knows his team for Tuesday's crucial Champions League match away to Villarreal.

Strachan's side had a last-minute Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink goal to thank for a 3- 2 win against Aberdeen on Saturday in the Scottish Premier League.

But he said he would not be influenced by individual players' performances in the match and would stick to the side he and his coaching staff had decided in advance of the Aberdeen game for the match against Villarreal.

And the Hoops gaffer said the tough test his players had faced against the Dons had been good preparation for Tuesday's match in Spain.

"I would have liked it to easier in the last 20 minutes that's for sure and the players would have liked it to be easier. But Aberdeen didn't make it easy for them," Strachan said.

"No-one has played their way into the side as I already know my team for Tuesday.

"Whatever the players did against Aberdeen I appreciate it and thank them for the game and for the three points. But if I've got a plan then I've got a plan."

Villarreal, who finished second behind Real Madrid in La Liga last season, will be tough opposition for Celtic after they picked up a point in their opening match at Old Trafford against Manchester United.

But Strachan added he had no new injury worries for the match and knows picking up at least a point at the Madrigal Stadium is vital following his side's 0-0 draw at home to Aalborg in their first match.

Strachan said: "Barry Robson had a wee injection in his groin on Friday which I don't think he liked and I don't think Andreas Hinkel will be fit either as he has a thigh strain.

"We sat down a couple of days ago and tried to get two teams for the games against Aberdeen and Villareal and I think because there are no new injuries we will be able to carry on with what I think is right for Tuesday."