Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has shut down worries around defender Cameron Carter-Vickers ahead of this weekend’s big derby at home to Rangers.
Carter-Vickers is a mainstay in the Celtic team, making 119 appearances in all competitions during his three seasons at the club so far. If the USA international is out injured, performances and results suffer.
Crucial then that he is fit and available for our biggest game of the season so far when Philippe Clement’s side visit on Sunday.
There was concern earlier on Friday when it became apparent Carter-Vickers wasn’t part of a Celtic training session at Lennoxtown, so fans have been awaiting word from the manager.
Carter-Vickers status confirmed ahead of Celtic vs Rangers
Speaking at a media conference, Rodgers said when asked if there’s an issue [Celtic Way]: “No, it’s just about giving him a wee day of recovery.
“Sometimes we do that in our sessions. When players are overloaded, we can take one or two out and give them a recovery day having worked hard all week.”
Celtic transfer latest as Rodgers looks to strengthen defence
Reports indicate that Celtic are closing in on a deal for Sheffield United defender Auston Trusty, who has previously had spells at Arsenal, Birmingham City, Colorado Rapids and Philadelphia Union.
He’s known to Carter-Vickers – the two are international teammates – so the Bhoys star will be delighted to get some familiar support in the defensive position.
Liam Scales is currently the first-choice left-sided central defender but Trusty’s profile and Celtic’s intent suggest he’ll be an upgrade on the dependable Irishman.
Trusty is said to be joining for a fee of £6m, so the club are making a solid investment in a much-needed position after Gustaf Lagerbielke and Yuki Kobayashi both left Glasgow during the summer transfer window.
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