I expect to be dropped, says Hartson
Celtic striker John Hartson admits he is expecting to be dropped when the Champions League campaign gets underway.
The Hoops were paired with the winners of the second round qualifying tie between FC Basel and MSK Zilina for the right to join the group stages of Europe’s glamour competition.
But the Welsh international concedes manager Martin O’Neill may opt to go with the more experienced forward line of Chris Sutton and Henrik Larsson after their successes in the European Cup last season.
Hartson said: "If I’m really honest, Chris has experienced more Champions League football and might be better equipped to play.
"But I have got 29 caps for Wales but maybe the two of them are better equipped for Europe.
"You would have to ask the manager. I have got to make sure I score goals in the SPL and give him a selection problem.
"But they were exceptional last year and, if they hadn’t been, I would probably have been more disappointed.
"It didn’t really happen for me last year but hopefully I can be a bit more ready this year.
"But perhaps Chris and Henrik are better suited to play in Europe.
"Last year, Chris was absolutely outstanding in the Champions League. Some of his performances, such as the two goals he scored against Juventus, were brilliant.
"Chris and Henrik Larsson were as good as any pairing in the Champions League last year.
"It would be nice to get a bit of a run but all I can do is my best and hopefully I will get a bit of a run.
"I was fortunate last year that I got in for a few SPL games and scored a few goals.
"I managed to put Chris at the back which suited everybody. It might be different this year and the manager may want to put Chris upfront again.
"So I have got to make sure I am up for the challenge and ready for the chance when it comes along.
"Competition is great - I have had it all my life. If it does go with them two, I have just got to knuckle down and make sure I can cause them a few problems."
However, Hartson maintains he will not be disheartened.
Instead, the former Arsenal and West Ham man is determined to give his manager a selection dilemma in the coming weeks.
Hartson said: "Competition is going to be more fierce this year and I am up for the challenge.
"I know Chris is a top quality striker and we all know how good Henrik is. But we have David Fernandez and Shaun Maloney as well so there is a lot of competition.
"However, I can feel proud of what I did last season - getting 24 goals - after coming in with after my medical problems.
"If I can better that this year, it will be great but I know it is going to be tough."
