The Draw for the Most Exciting Competition Outside of the World Cup

The Champions League qualifying ties are done, and the groups have been set.

I love the European Cup competition. I love seeing the different styles of football (soccer) from the competing nations compete against each other.

Some thoughts about the Champions League group stages, which begin next month.

• So the Scots are still squabbling over the proposition that an All-United Kingdom football side be fielded for the 2012 Olympic Games. Well, at least one Scottish side gets to be the hopes of tiny the nation as Manchester United and Celtic match up twice in the group stage.

• I am dubbing Group D this year's "Group of Death" Why? Well, we know Liverpool will advance through, but you pick between PSV, Marseille and Atletico Madrid.

• Barcelona couldn't have prayed for an easier six matches.

• Poor Juventus. Their first time back in two years and they draw Real Madrid and UEFA Cup winners Zenit.

• Is Chelsea really the top draw for this tournament? Please.