Christopher Jullien’s day ended on a sour note as he came off with a knock in Celtic’s 3-1 win over Kilmarnock.
The Hoops made it six wins out of six in another fine day at Parkhead. The 100% record continued after an early scare when Eamonn Brophy fired Killie ahead. However, an Odsonne Edouard brace was followed up by another Ryan Christie goal to keep Celtic three points clear.
But there was a big concern as Jullien once again came off with a niggling knock. It was clear he was in a bit of discomfort after a collision in the second half. He had to come off for Tom Rogic.
It’s a concern for the Hoops in what was a comfortable enough display from them. Celtic host Partick Thistle on Wednesday night in the Betfred Cup. Already, that’s looking like a match in which the Parkhead side can rest key men. Jullien looks like he should be one of them.
It’s not the first time the big centre-back has struggled with a slight knock since arriving. In the last Premiership clash against Hamilton, he took a head blow late on at the Fountain of Youth stadium. He recovered from that to put in a commanding performance in Rennes.
Hopefully, it’s the same again this time around. At the time of writing, Neil Lennon has yet to provide an update on the blow.
Big games coming up for Celtic
Celtic have some huge games coming up starting with next Saturday’s trip to Easter Road against Hibernian. Considering our struggles in Leith in recent seasons, we could do with Jullien being ready for that one.
Afterward, we take to our second Europa League group stage match against Cluj. This certainly isn’t the time to be picking up injuries to key players.
Celtic also still have Nir Bitton and Jozo Simunovic out. Another blow could see Hatem Abd Elhamed forced to move into a centre-back position alongside Kristoffer Ajer.
The good news, however, is that Jullien managed to leave the pitch on his own today. Hopefully, that means that any knock he’s picked up isn’t as bad as first feared.
Lennon is sure to update us all before the night is out.
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