Celtic defender Hatem Elhamed is in quarantine after feeling unwell last night, the Scottish Sun reports.
The Sun states that Hoops right-back Elhamed, who can also operate as a centre-back, is due to undergo a Covid test this morning to see whether his effects are a result of having the virus.
The former Hapoel Be’er Sheva man has played 210 minutes for his country over the last four days, and managed the full 90 minutes in yesterday’s 2-1 Nations League home defeat to the Czech Republic.
Elhamed was taken straight out of the squad last night after the Czech defeat according to the Scottish Sun. Neil Lennon and the entire Celtic support will now be forced to endure a nervy wait as we see whether the right-back has to self-isolate for longer.
Celtic have already lost Ryan Christie and Nir Bitton for the derby due to self-isolation procedures, whilst Odsonne Edouard is only scheduled to come back to Scotland from France a day before the Rangers game.
Lack of depth would be concerning if Elhamed misses out
There’s of course no certainty that Elhamed would’ve started against Rangers. In fact, the chances are he would’ve been rooted to the bench as Jeremie Frimpong takes the right-wing-back spot.
However, we really can’t afford to lose too many more centre-backs. With Bitton already sidelined, we now only have Shane Duffy, Christopher Jullien, and Kristoffer Ajer available. Stephen Welsh would be the only back-up if Elhamed picks up the virus.
As is always the case, your first concern is for the player’s safety. Hopefully, regardless of what Elhamed is currently plagued with, he can return to full health as quickly as possible.
But it’s difficult not to look ahead at the increasing injury list Celtic are having to deal with. There’s also still five days to go before Rangers visit Parkhead on October 17th – there is still plenty of time for further setbacks.
The international break has proven to be an absolute disaster, and the only saving grace here would be if Elhamed tests negative. Having him back would certainly boost our depth.
So, after we had a scare yesterday with Duffy and the Ireland camp, now it’s time to say our prayers and hope Elhamed doesn’t fall victim to the virus either.
In other news, we talk about why it’s important we don’t allow this potential obsession to dominate the build-up to Saturday.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
