Messi: I’ll get Bhoys in the group stages

From Back Page latest glamour leg of the International Champions Cup.

And while Messi is in the mood to do as much damage as possible to the Scottish champs, he believes the clash will provide Celtic with a perfect chance to fine tune their preparations for next week’s second-leg qualifier against Astana in Glasgow.

The tie is still in the balance despite Rodgers leading his team to a 1-1 draw in Kazakhstan on Wednesday afternoon.

And Messi is backing the Hoops to finish off the job.

He said: “For Celtic they have much more important games than this coming up with the Champions League qualifiers but this can help them prepare.

“We’ve had some games against Celtic that I’ll always remember. They’re a big club, with big fans, and I’d like to see them qualify this year – it’s where they belong.

“It’s always a good atmosphere against Celtic. The Barcelona players who experienced the games in Europe against them will know what to expect from their fans. It’s only a friendly but I don’t think their fans know what a friendly is. There’s a lot of Celtic fans in Ireland and I expect them to make a lot of noise and create a special atmosphere.”

But as much as Messi might like to see Celtic make it through the group stages his own focus is fixed on lifting the Champions League trophy once again.

The Argentine ace has won the European title four times already but has the hunger to claim a fifth before he turns 30.

He said: “My aim this season is the same as it always is – to try and win every competition that Barcelona are in.

“That’s what is expected of us as a club.

“The Champions League is always a big competition for Barcelona. It’s a special trophy and one I’d like to win many more times.

“But it’s never easier and this year will be no different. The big teams in Europe have all improved but we’re confident in our squad and confident about the season ahead.”