Long-term Celtic absentee indicates training return on Instagram

By Euan Davidson

November 30, 2021

Celtic youngster Karamoko Dembele has hinted he’s back in training, just a month after having surgery.

The winger, who was injured in pre-season against Bristol City, was snapped by an online football boot retailer. Classic Football Boots Ltd shared a picture of Karamoko Dembele with a new pair of Adidas.

It’s a sight that’ll delight Celtic supporters, no doubt. Dembele looked to be well-attuned to Ange Postecoglou’s tactics in pre-season, complimenting Owen Moffat in early friendlies. Unfortunately, a needless tackle from a Bristol City defender derailed his early momentum.

What stage Karamoko Dembele is at in his recovery is unclear. Having had surgery so recently, it’s a surprise to see him at Lennoxtown at all.

Likely, he’ll be doing light training with the fitness coaches. Anton McElhone, Head of Sports Science, will be hoping to get on the track for a role in the squad after Christmas.

Ange Postecoglou was clearly buoyed by Dembele’s pace and guile in the very early stages of his time at Celtic. Adding a dangerous option to the right flank, alongside Forrest and Abada, would be an exciting prospect for the Greek-Aussie boss.

Is Karamoko Dembele on the road to Celtic return?

For Karamoko Dembele, there’s a feeling that bad luck and stubbornness – not his – have prevented him from making more of an impact.

His reputation at Celtic has been known for a long time now. The low centre of gravity, ability to easily beat players and end product are subject of a number of viral clips.

He’s already made a first-team impact for Celtic, scoring against St Johnstone in the latter part of last season. When John Kennedy brought him in, it was exciting but there was a sense of regret there. The right flank had been a problem area all season, but Dembele was nowhere to be seen.

With Ange Postecoglou in the dugout these days, it feels more optimistic for Dembele. The Greek-Aussie boss has no problem relying on young players, and he’ll want to make a proper assessment on a player whose contract runs out in the summer.

Hopefully, this photo is an indication that he’s back on the path to the first team.

With European football after Christmas, combined with cup and league demands, we could certainly use his talents.

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