The injury to Celtic defender Jozo Simunovic is a bit of a blow for both parties.
Once out of favour, the Croatian was back in the fold for the early games in the season. From drop out to starter in a space of a few months, Simunovic cemented his place before injury.
But, will his omission until the new year open up a new avenue for one of the squad players?
Jozo Simunovic injury means more game time for others
The former Dinamo Zagreb man went in for his knee operation over a week ago.
It was confirmed today that the heeling time will take around three or four months. This leaves a huge gap in a Celtic side high confidence.
In the summer, the Hoops brought in three full-backs and all are proving to be the real deal. However, will starter Hatem Abd Elhamed, a natural centre-half, be more of an option in the middle with Simunovic out?
Neil Lennon will be comfortable with Moritz Bauer and young Jeremie Frimpong as full-backs. The latter even won the man of the match in the midweek cup win at home to Partick Thistle.
Hoops may be looking to move the Croat on
Simunovic’s injury worries are no secret to anyone in Scottish football. He has probably spent more time on the crocked list than actual minutes in green and white hoops.
There’s no denying that he has his qualities but his unreliability when it comes to fitness is a major concern.
Celtic may look to cut their losses in the coming year by allowing Simunovic to move on.
He was a wantaway defender once before, but now it seems that it’s the club who would do better without him.
In doing so, perhaps a permanent switch for Elhamed will allow the likes of Frimpong to have more game time and continue to shine.
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