Lennon still wary of Udinese

Neil Lennon insists Udinese will present tough opposition regardless of whether star striker Antonio di Natale is in their ranks when they visit Celtic on Thursday.

The Italian club's coach, Francesco Guidolin, whose side are joint top of Serie A, was quoted as saying that frontman Di Natale was "tired" and would be given time off.

With several other players injured or ineligible, reports claim rookie Diego Fabbrini - an attacking midfielder - will lead the line.

Lennon has played down the potential significance of Udinese travelling to Parkhead for the UEFA Europa League encounter without a recognised striker.

The Hoops boss said: "If it benefits us then I'm pleased about it but we will wait and see.

"Di Natale is a quality player and has been in great form for the last 18 months, two years.

Cover

"If he is not there then I am sure they have adequate cover.

"Maybe not a top-quality goalscorer (like Di Natale) but you are talking about the cream of Serie A, so they will have a very good squad.

"I don't think it is disrespect. People have brought that up but I don't think so. Their coach will do what he feels is best for their team.

"But we try not to concentrate too much on what they are doing and focus more on what we are going to do.

"We are going to be positive. We are going to take the game to them. We are the home team."