James Forrest has stated that he “can’t even describe” what he felt when he made his Celtic return at Tannadice on Sunday.
The Scotland international has had a prolonged spell on the sidelines after injuring himself in Riga. James came off during that Europa League qualifier with ankle damage. Initially, he was only supposed to be out for a six-week period [BBC].
But you had to fast forward almost five months before Forrest would step out for a competitive game once again. That’s due to the fact his rehab was struck with a major setback when he tried to return too quickly.
And after making his return in Sunday’s 0-0 draw, Forrest was clearly a relieved and grateful man.
Speaking to Celtic TV today, James said: “I didn’t know it was going to be as a bad as this, but I did know at the time it wasn’t looking good. I was in a boot for a couple of weeks to try and let it settle down that way, I came back and tried to do stuff in the gym and it was still not healed.
“I ended up having to get an operation, six weeks on crutches and then it was just starting from the very start again. The hardest part was just after my operation.
“I was absolutely delighted to get some minutes. I can’t even describe how it felt. It’s been such a long time. I was delighted to be back training with the boys over the last 10 days or so and get back out on the pitch and trying to help the boys. It was a great feeling and I just want to keep continuing my comeback, get more training under my belt and, hopefully, get more games as well.”
Not enough time left this season for Celtic star James Forrest to make regular return to starting line-ups
It was great seeing Forrest back and running at players again. Many may feel he can offer more when he’s on the pitch, but he gives us pace, width, and a cutting edge in the final third. Even if at times he’s inconsistent.
You only need to look at his numbers last season to realise what kind of a difference he could’ve made. He fired home 16 goals and bagged 22 assists in 47 appearances. It was a superb effort and really helped fire us to nine-in-a-row [Transfermarkt].
To then just take that out of the team was always going to be a big problem. It’s why we haven’t been much of a threat all season down that flank whatsoever. But unfortunately, it’s too late to make a genuine impact between now and the summer.
When Forrest picked up his injury, Celtic were heading for a Europa League playoff tie and found themselves in a fierce battle with Rangers at the top of the Premiership. A quadruple treble was in reach, with even some suggestions if a quintuple treble from supporters.
Now he returns with all of that more or less blown up. Yes, the quadruple-treble was won. But it was 10-in-a-row that was always the main prize this season. He returns with his manager gone and an interim placed in charge. He returns with six league games left as well as the Scottish Cup games we have remaining this season.
There isn’t enough time to get James back into the starting line-up on a regular basis. He’ll need to be eased in gradually. However, thankfully it looks as though he’ll be fit and raring to go for pre-season this summer.
In other news, an SPFL manager has encouraged Celtic to perform a guard of honour next weekend.
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