Neil Lennon has bigged up the return to action of Tom Rogic, but has hinted that he’s unlikely to start against Lille this evening.
Celtic are in France for tonight’s crunch Europa League group stage contest. A win for the Hoops opens the group up nicely, whilst a defeat paints a worrying picture after an opening-day loss to AC Milan.
Rogic, meanwhile, has returned to action with a bang over the last week. He impressed in the second half against Milan last Thursday night, before producing a wonderful display against Aberdeen where he bagged two assists.
But Lennon, who signed Rogic for the club all the way back in 2011, has stated that the Aussie went to see a specialist just a few days after the game.
Speaking at his pre-match presser published by Celtic TV, Lennon said: “That was Tom’s first start (vs Aberdeen). It’s not a question of his mindset. He’s had ankle and knee problems. He was seeing a specialist yesterday (Tuesday) and the specialist was pleased with how the ankle responded after he played 85 minutes at the weekend.
“It might be a push to ask him to start three games in a week so soon, but I think he’s a wonderful player. I think he adds just that little bit of difference to the team, that little bit of creativity at times.
“He’s such a smart player. It would be great to get a run of games out of him.”
Managing Rogic crucial to the 10
Whenever Rogic plays for 60 minutes or over these days your first concern is whether he’s going to pick up an injury.
Brendan Rodgers always used to hook Rogic after starting him in matches when he was the manager, but Lennon appears to be putting some more faith in the mercurial playmaker. The Aussie has played many full games under the Celtic boss since he arrived back at the club in February 2019.
And it’s clear that Lennon is fully aware of his importance to the team given these recent comments. Managing Rogic’s fitness could be key to securing the 10, and it’s promising to hear that a specialist was pleased with how his ankle was looking after a long outing vs Aberdeen.
It is a blow to know he likely won’t start in Lille, although it’s hardly a surprise. Starting back-to-back games isn’t something Rogic has been known for in recent years. And whilst Lennon’s comments keep it open to interpretation as to whether he misses Lille or Aberdeen or Sunday, all signs point to him dropping out tonight.
However, a starring show against the Dons this weekend in the Scottish Cup semi-final and nobody will be questioning the decision. Keeping Rogic fit and healthy this season is crucial for our domestic dominance.
Here’s hoping he can continue to stay that way.
In other news, we discuss why Sunday can be a day for one Celtic star to hit the reset button.
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