Gravesen's absence has been played down by boss Strachan

"You never said that about Jiri Jarosik or Kenny Miller when they were out," said Strachan, after the Dane sat out the midweek clash with AC Milan.

"The reason is he is higher profile, but there is no bigger mountain to climb for him than anyone else.

"Thomas has been buzzing in training. He looked good so he is fine."

The 30-year-old, thought to be the highest-paid player at Celtic Park, has blown hot and cold since arriving in the summer for a fee thought to be around �2m.

Gravesen lost his place to Paul Hartley after the Scotland midfielder signed from Hearts during the transfer window and his contributions in recent weeks have been mostly restricted to appearances off the bench.

Hartley was cup-tied for the Champions League game against AC Milan at Celtic Park in midweek.

If he is not satisfied at Celtic, it would be a perfect opportunity to play in MLS with our club LA Galaxy head coach Frank Yallop

And there were eyebrows raised when 19-year-old Evander Sno was preferred to the former Denmark international in midfield.

Strachan's comments come just a few days after reports from Gravesen's agent claimed he was unhappy at his lack of action and might have to consider his future if the situation does not improve.

Reports have also linked the former Real Madrid man to a switch to Major League Soccer side LA Galaxy alongside former team-mate David Beckham.

Head coach Frank Yallop told The Herald: "Thomas Gravesen would be welcome here at Galaxy.

"He is a very good player with great experience at the highest level of club and international football.

"I think he could be a superstar in MLS and I'm sure it would be a pleasure for David Beckham to play with him again.

"If he is not satisfied at Celtic, it would be a perfect opportunity to play in MLS with our club."