Celtic midfielder Nir Bitton has revealed that he feared his career was over after suffering a knee injury. The player was out of action for 11 months, and has only just returned to first-team football.
Even though he is playing again, at one stage Bitton thought the day would never come.
“Obviously you have this thought in your mind, especially if it’s your first long-term injury – you don’t know what to expect” he told BBC Sport.
“You don’t know what to expect”
“The medical staff were always positive with me, always optimistic and tried to lift my morale and I didn’t really think about it but it was in my mind.”
Bitton has turned into a valuable asset since his return from injury. He has started the last two games, the wins over Hearts and Hibernian.
Significant role going forward
Interestingly, the two starts came in the games which were managed by interim Hoops boss Neil Lennon. That shows that Bitton could play a significant role going forward this season.
Of course, there are a few Hoops midfielders out injured at the moment. Tom Rogic and Callum McGregor would be in the first-team if not for injuries.
But Bitton has taken has opportunity well, and he has earned his place in the first-team. With the Hoops having five league games left until the winter break, it would not be a surprise to see Bitton start them all.
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