FC Barcelona vs. Celta Vigo Preview, Prediction: Will Lionel Messi Play after his Child's Birth?

Lionel Messi has had a tremendous 2012. It was just made better with the birth of his child this past week.

He did not train with Barcelona on Friday, but he is expected to be in the squad for Saturday's La Liga match against Celta Vigo at the Camp Nou. Whether or not he is needed is a completely different issue altogether. Celta Vigo, the newly promoted club, has not found life in the first division all that welcoming, but they have fared rather well. With 11 points in 9 games they are in 13^th place and out of the relegation spots. They played an impressive 2-0 loss to Real Madrid a few weeks ago and are sure to put pressure on Barca.

Meanwhile Blaugrana has been virtually unbeatable despite having a hobbled defense. They defeated Alaves 3-0 in the first leg of the Copa del Rey tournament and were invincible against Rayo Vallecano last weekend. Messi leads the team with 13 goals and David Villa looks like he is finally back in form and could do some damage. Defensively this team needs some help as they have looked susceptible on the counter attack. Celta might not offer much offensively, but they could surely surprise in this match.

Prediction: Barca should be in form with or without Messi. A 4-0 win looks possible.

Start Time: 1 p.m. EDT