Celtic are at the business end of another fine campaign for all involved, but Brendan Rodgers now has some fresh injury problems to contend with at Parkhead.
Celtic star Jota ruled out for up to nine months
Kasper Schmeichel has been a notable absentee for Celtic in recent weeks, but Brendan Rodgers provided confirmation earlier today that Jota could now be sidelined for up to nine months with a knee injury sustained in the Bhoys’ triumph over Dundee United last weekend.
In what was a title-clinching win for his side, the Portuguese winger collapsed in a heap under the weight of a challenge shortly after playing his part in the visitors opening the scoring as Ryan Strain put through his own net.
Now, Adam Idah is most likely to get the opportunity to step into the fold as a central striker. Daizen Maeda will be expected to feature on the left flank, while the likes of James Forrest and Hyunjun Yang may earn more minutes in reserve.
Conceivably, Celtic’s summer transfer plans may now have to be altered as a result. Heart of Midlothian attacker James Wilson has been eyed at Parkhead following his exploits at Tynecastle, but he is unlikely to be a signing expected to hit the ground running.
Stoke City winger Million Manhoef is also on the Bhoys’ radar and would potentially be able to push for a first-team place straight away. However, his £10 million valuation may well prove to be a sticking point.
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Despite the news that Jota could be out until the second half of next term, he isn’t the only Celtic star set for a spell on the treatment table.
Celtic set to lose Alistair Johnston for several weeks
Speaking on Friday, Celtic boss Rodgers also confirmed that Alistair Johnston is set to be out until the Bhoys’ Scottish Cup final clash against Aberdeen due to needing a hip injection.
He stated: “Ali Johnston won’t be available. Ali’s been needing an injection into his hip that he’s had for a period of time to ensure he was ready for the cup final and have enough preparation.
“We decided we would do that after the Dundee United game, so that puts him out of the weekend and most probably the St Mirren game.”
In contrast to some frustrating news involving Jota and the Canadian defender, South Korean winger Yang is back in contention for Sunday’s Glasgow Derby clash against Rangers at Ibrox. Anthony Ralston is set to start in Johnston’s place, offering up an opportunity for the Scotland international to add to his 20 appearances this season, in which he has registered two goals and three assists.
Ultimately, this weekend’s showdown against Rangers is only important from a pride perspective. Nevertheless, the only match left this campaign with meaningful jeopardy attached is their cup final clash with Aberdeen at Hampden. Taking no risks, Rodgers has decided to put the health of his side first by taking Johnston out of the firing line for the time being.