Mohamed Elyounoussi claims injury was picked up with Celtic

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Mohamed Elyounoussi’s injury knock was one of the real blows of the international break, as he was sent home from Norway duty.

The Daily Record claimed that the winger had picked up a foot injury on international duty. He was ruled out of Norway’s matches against the Faroe Islands and Malta respectively.

However, it turns out that the on-loan Southampton man was actually carrying the injury when he went to his international camp as opposed to having picked it up whilst there.

Speaking in the Scotsman, Elyounoussi cleared up exactly when he picked up the knock.

“I actually picked up the injury a couple of weeks ago against Hibs in the League Cup semi-final. Then I had to go with the national team and it didn’t really have enough time to heal.

“So we had a look at it and it was decided I needed a rest. But I think it will be alright.”

Elyounoussi seemed destined for Norway chance

The injury perhaps couldn’t have come at a worse time for Elyounoussi’s international career. Given the fact that he had been performing so well with Celtic, it looked like the time was right for him to take up the left-wing spot with his national team.

The winger hasn’t played in any of Norway’s last eight matches (Transfermarkt). But he went into the squad last week with his form as good as it’s been in that period.

It’s also interesting to hear that the injury was picked up at Hibs. After all, Mo then went on to play 90 minutes in Lazio and the majority of the 2-0 home win against Motherwell three days later. Whatever he picked up against the Edinburgh side couldn’t have resulted in much immediate pain.

Fortunately, it seems as though the injury isn’t going to be too serious. Elyounoussi believes it will be fine, and ahead of some crucial matches for the club, that’s a real positive to hear.

With Mikey Johnston’s fitness also up for debate given he pulled out of the Scotland under-21s (Evening Times), it would be a huge boost to have Mo back fit as soon as possible.

Livingston are at Celtic Park on Saturday, and it’s a game that doesn’t make you feel we need to risk the Norwegian. With Scott Sinclair and Lewis Morgan itching for opportunities, Lenny still has options there.