Brendan Rodgers has provided an update on Kasper Schmeichel’s fitness, but Celtic fans will need to wait a little longer for a definitive timeline on the goalkeeper’s return.
The 38-year-old sustained a shoulder injury while on international duty with Denmark during their Nations League play-off against Portugal. Forced to play through extra time due to all substitutes being used, Schmeichel worsened the issue in a situation where a clear offside call was delayed – leading him to make an unnecessary save attempt.
While Denmark’s medical team have ruled out a fracture, there’s still uncertainty about the severity of the injury. Brendan Rodgers, speaking on Friday, admitted the club are still in the dark regarding the full extent of the damage.
Rodgers said: “Well, we don’t know how long he’ll be out. We’re still waiting to hear on that.
“He’s obviously got some issues with his shoulder.
“I spoke to him the other day and he’s okay. He’s obviously disappointed that they lost their second game, but in the main he’s okay.” [TCW]
Schmeichel’s absence means Viljami Sinisalo is expected to make his league debut this weekend against Hearts, having featured once before in the Scottish Cup. The 23-year-old will now get a significant opportunity to stake his claim, with Celtic entering the crucial final stretch of the season.
With the title still to be wrapped up and a Scottish Cup semi-final on the horizon, Schmeichel’s fitness will be closely monitored – but for now, the Hoops will be relying on Sinisalo to step up between the sticks.
