Kieran Tierney stays behind, but Jozo Simunovic back for Celtic

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There wasn’t much in the way of injuries to report for Brendan Rodgers yesterday, which is a real positive for Celtic.

Supporters tuning into Rodgers’ press conference may have been hoping for some positive news on potential returns. But, unfortunately, there isn’t anyone currently on the sidelines ready for a swift return.

Jozo Simunovic, however, will be back available. This comes after the Bosnian had to miss out Sunday’s win at Rugby Park due to the astroturf surface.

In addition to that, Rodgers also stated that Kieran Tierney has been left behind in Glasgow. The Scotland internationalist has been suffering from a hip injury. Speaking at his presser on Celtic TV (8:03), Rodgers told of his short injury updates.

“What have we to add?

“Jozo Simunovic comes back into the squad. I think everyone else is as it was for the weekend.

“Kieran Tierney has obviously not travelled, so we’re hoping that he’ll be okay for the weekend (Motherwell on Sunday).”

Hayes’ time

If Jonny Hayes was ever wondering whether he would get the chance to impress in a huge match for Celtic, he can wipe that concern from his mind.

Tonight, he has to be the replacement for Tierney. Hayes performed admirably at Rugby Park on Sunday and put in a much more efficient performance than Emilio Izaguirre did in the first leg against Valencia at Parkhead.

Los Che consistently exploited the Honduran down that flank. A lack of pace from Izzy ultimately meant that he couldn’t do much to halt Valencia going forward. This is where Hayes’ pace could be a big factor at the Mestalla.

Of course, Tierney’s return date looks all but set. The youth academy graduate has been touted for a return this Sunday earlier in the week too. Rodgers seems to have built it up so much that it would be a huge surprise if Tierney missed out.

Simunovic’s return, meanwhile, is ideal but it shouldn’t make Ajer lose his place in the side either. The Norwegian was a stout performer at Rugby Park, and always looks more assured than the returning Bosnian.

Tonight, Celtic can afford no slip-ups, be it on the pitch or off it.