Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou clears up Hatate and Giakoumakis situations; update on Ralston limp off

By John McGinley

July 16, 2022

Ange Postecoglou has cleared up the status of Anthony Ralston, Reo Hatate and Giorgos Giakoumakis after Celtic’s 2-2 draw against Blackburn Rovers.

Both Hatate and Giakoumakis were missing from the matchday squad, while Ralston limped off towards the end of the fixture.

However, there’s nothing to worry about with any of them, with no long-term injuries or problems to report.

Speaking to The Herald, Postecoglou said: “Anthony Ralston is alright. He’s got a bit of a cut on his foot, a couple of stitches but nothing too serious.

“Reo is okay but fell ill yesterday. We had a decision to make. We could have given him 30 minutes today or flog him on the running track. Unfortunately for him, we flogged him.

“Gio has taken a couple of personal days as his missus is due [to give birth]. We sent a personal trainer, so he’s not getting away with that.”

The only substantial injury in the squad right now appears to be Carl Starfelt, who is still recovering from the hamstring injury sustained on international duty.

However, he is also thought to be closing in on a full training return, with Postecoglou hopeful he will be available by the time the Aberdeen opener comes around.

It’s a promising situation on the fitness front, with the manager and coaching stuff able to work the group hard and rotate through many substitutions.

In other news, Steven Gerrard dishes out praise for Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou away from the Glasgow bubble.