Celtic boss Neil Lennon has provided a host of injury updates ahead of the Hoops’ league match against Kilmarnock on Wednesday night.
The Hoops boss gave updates on six players.
Speaking on the club’s Twitter account, he firstly revealed that James Forrest will miss the game against Kilmarnock, but Kristoffer Ajer and Mikey Johnston have recovered from injury and are available for the game.
He then revealed that Ryan Christie has recovered from his hamstring injury and will be available for selection after his suspension.
There was more positive news when Lennon confirmed that Hatem Abd Elhamed’s recent injury wasn’t as severe as first thought.
“Not as bad”
However, there was less positive news about Nir Bitton, who will be out of action for a few weeks.
The news is a mixed bag, but Celtic fans will be cheered by the fact that Ryan Christie is once more fit. It is also positive news that Hatem Abd Elhamed’s injury is not as bad as first feared.
Return of duo for vital fixture is key
More immediately, the return of Ajer and Johnston against Kilmarnock is very important. Ajer in particular is key, as Jozo Simunovic was likely not going to play at Rugby Park due to the artificial pitch.
The Hoops do have a big squad, so they should be able to cope with most injury issues. However, the absence of Bitton for a while is a blow.
Particularly as he can play in two positions, centre-back and midfield. As for Elhamed, hopefully he returns sooner rather than later, as when he is fit he has been an excellent player for the Hoops.
It will be interesting to see if the injury news has any impact on Celtic’s plans for the January transfer window.
Lennon might consider a move for another defender as Bitton is going to be out of action for a while. Still, it is good news that some vital players have returned from injury.
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