Celtic have been hit with an unfortunate injury crisis at centre-back ahead of the Betfred Cup tie against Partick Thistle.
Both Jozo Simunovic and Nir Bitton will miss the game with long-term injuries. Meanwhile, Christopher Jullien went off with an injury in the recent win over Kilmarnock.
It might be too much of a risk to involve him in the game, with so many big games ahead for the Hoops in the coming weeks.
Therefore, there might well be a return to the Celtic starting line-up for a forgotten man – Jack Hendry. Hendry has not featured at all for the Hoops this season.
Makes sense for player to start v Partick
He has not even made a substitute appearance for the club this season. However, it could make sense to start him in defence alongside Kristoffer Ajer.
The duo have played together in the past for the Hoops, although on very few occasions. It would be a vote of confidence for the player, that Neil Lennon still believes in him despite his lack of appearances so far this season.
It might only be a one-off appearance for Hendry, but he will be looking to show that he can still do a job for the Hoops.
Unlikely to have long-term future with the club
The game could also be a chance for the player to show any interested club that he is still a player worth buying. It is unlikely that Hendry will have a long-term future with the Hoops. That does not mean that he can’t still play for the club in the meantime.
Celtic should still be favourites for the game no matter who plays in defence. However, they will still want to play a strong side for the game, to ensure that the club reaches the semi-final.
A partnership of Hendry and Ajer should be good enough to help the Hoops book a place at Hampden for the semi-final.
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