There’s good news for Celtic supporters on Friday after Alistair Johnston and Cameron Carter-Vickers were both spotted in Lennoxtown training.
Carter-Vickers missed out on United States international duty after being pictured in a protective boot after the 3-0 win over Rangers.
Johnston meanwhile had to be substituted out of Canada’s friendly match against the USA after feeling an issue with his hamstring.
However, it seems Brendan Rodgers will be able to utilise both for the immediate challenges ahead with Hearts visiting Celtic Park on Saturday and Slovan Bratislava on Wednesday night.
Celtic duo Johnston and Carter-Vickers spotted on Friday
Sky Sports cameras captured the defensive duo involved alongside Greg Taylor and James Forrest – both of whom also missed out on national duty recently.
We’ve yet to hear official word from the manager on everyone’s status but the signs are good that there are no major problems that will keep them out of action.
Decisions to be made with the Champions League looming
Despite their involvement in Friday’s group work, the manager may well still decide to rest them against Hearts.
With Anthony Ralston available and Auston Trusty in the building, Rodgers has options if he is looking to protect anyone ahead of the Champions League starting.
He won’t want to tinker with an in-form team too much but there’s no need to take any risks either.
Johnston in particular has had a lot of football over the past few months with his Copa America heroics, so it might be best to sit him out on Saturday. That would allow him to attack Slovan Bratislava at full tilt in his usual combative style.
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