Neil Lennon has confirmed that Celtic striker Vakoun Issouf Bayo has picked up a hamstring knock.
Question marks were asked on social media by the supporters as to why Bayo was missing yesterday. Celtic played two matches against St Gallen’s first-team and their under-21s. This generally led to two different Hoops XIs that Bayo wasn’t involved in in the space of eight or nine hours.
It lacked sense and held a lot of mystery. It was even more bemusing considering Bayo had managed to score the winner against Wiener Sportclub on Saturday. His fine turning strike with the left boot had supporters excited over seeing him once again.
But Lennon confirmed to Celtic TV this afternoon that Bayo has once again tweaked his hamstring.
“Unfortunately we have to wait and see how he is. He felt a little twinge on the hamstring. He was looking really good as well.”
Celtic striker Bayo now a doubt for Tuesday
It’s clearly now a waiting game with Bayo. It was odd that Celtic TV didn’t touch on the matter yesterday during the 0-0 draw with St Gallen. But, in any case, it’s good to see an explanation over why he was missing.
Bayo likely wouldn’t have started on Tuesday in any case. Given he finished last season as top scorer, Odsonne Edouard should be given the nod to face Sarajevo in Bosnia.
Then we also have Leigh Griffiths, who has been in sensational form over the pre-season training camp. He’s fired home a stunning six goals in three matches. Granted, Sarajevo will be a step-up on Tuesday night compared to the opposition we’ve faced over the last week or so.
As for Bayo, this knock couldn’t be more untimely. For his own sake, here’s hoping it isn’t the same kind of injury that led to him missing the final three months of last season. With Griffiths playing so well in pre-season, the Ivorian will want to get back on the pitch to prove his worth.
Lennon may also be forced to change his formation plans if he was looking to play two up top. There have been occasions in pre-season where he’s switched to a 4-4-2. But given we now only have two strikers available, that doesn’t look the safest bet.
So we now have some clarity on Bayo in any case. Now, we just hope it’s nothing too serious.
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