Celtic have been hit with a major injury concern ahead of their Scottish Premiership clash against St Johnstone this weekend, with a key player potentially set to miss out.
Brendan Rodgers’ side, enjoying a perfect start to the season, travel to McDiarmid Park on Saturday evening hoping to extend their 100% league record.
A win could see them open up a significant eight-point gap over Rangers, depending on how their rivals fare against Hibernian on Sunday.
The pressure is mounting on Rangers in what could prove to be a pivotal moment early in the season. Further dropped points could leave Michael Beale’s side trailing Celtic significantly, heightening the tension in the title race, even at this relatively early stage.
Meanwhile, Celtic’s transfer dealings have been making waves, with the club reportedly linked to 18-year-old Swedish sensation Bazoumana Toure.
The Hammarby winger, already boasting 16 senior appearances and an impressive tally of six goals and three assists, has been tipped for a move to Parkhead in a potential £8m deal.
His ability to play on either flank has caught the eye, adding a dynamic option for Rodgers as he looks to build a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts.
However, in the midst of this positive transfer news, Celtic have been dealt a significant injury blow. Cameron Carter-Vickers, who has become a pivotal figure in the Hoops’ defence, is now a doubt for the upcoming fixture against St Johnstone after missing Friday’s training session at Lennoxtown.
Football Scotland broke the news, stating that Carter-Vickers’ absence raises concerns that he could be sidelined for a longer period.
The 26-year-old American international had already missed the midweek victory against Falkirk, and now his participation this weekend appears doubtful.
As Football Scotland noted, “Was nowhere to be seen sparking major concerns that he could face another period on the sidelines.”
Carter-Vickers has been a vital cog in Celtic’s backline, playing every minute in the Premiership this season and averaging 3.4 aerial duels won per game.
His absence would undoubtedly weaken a Celtic defence that has prided itself on its solidity under Rodgers. The former Tottenham Hotspur man has been hailed for his consistency and strength in the heart of defence.
Former Celtic star Jackie McNamara recently praised Carter-Vickers, emphasising his importance to the team:
“Carter-Vickers is strong and has a lot of attributes. He’s been a terrific signing. Yeah, he’s up there with some of the best – although he’s not quite the same kind of player as Bobo! I played with some cracking centre-backs over the years – Johan Mjallby, Mark Rieper, and so on. Carter-Vickers has definitely been one who has been an excellent signing. He’s very steady and consistent.”
The potential loss of Carter-Vickers for an extended period could have serious implications, not only for Celtic’s domestic campaign but also for their European ambitions.
The club’s Champions League fixtures are looming large, and Rodgers will be keen to have his defensive stalwart fit and available for those crucial matches.
Carter-Vickers has previously struggled with injury, undergoing knee surgery last year, so there is understandable concern amongst the Celtic faithful.
The lack of detailed updates from the club has only fuelled speculation about the severity of the injury, with fans now anxiously awaiting news on the defender’s condition. His absence, even in the short term, would be a significant setback for a team that relies heavily on his leadership and defensive acumen.
As Celtic prepare for their weekend clash, all eyes will be on whether Carter-Vickers can make a surprise return or if Rodgers will be forced to reshuffle his defence. Either way, the injury could have wider ramifications for a side chasing silverware on multiple fronts.