Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has provided clarity on the fitness of key players, Nat Phillips and Kyogo Furuhashi, after their weekend match against Dundee.
Nat Phillips, who recently joined Celtic on loan from Liverpool, made his debut for the Hoops but was substituted at half-time during the 3-0 win over Dundee. This decision raised concerns about a potential injury. However, Rodgers confirmed in a post-match interview that the decision to pull Phillips was purely precautionary. The player had a minor ankle issue towards the end of the first half, prompting Rodgers to act swiftly to ensure he’s available for the upcoming Champions League match against Feyenoord on Tuesday.
Another concern during the Dundee match was when striker Kyogo Furuhashi required treatment after an apparent shoulder issue. Despite this, he returned to the pitch and made significant contributions, scoring a goal and providing an assist in the second half. Addressing the situation, Rodgers commented on Kyogo’s resilience and downplayed any significant injury concerns.
Speaking to BBC Sportsound, Rodgers said, ”Nat just rolled his ankle in the last action of the first half, so we just wanted to protect him
“Kyogo felt a little bit on his shoulder and he needed a bit of work inside. But he came out and it didn’t really affect him as he scored and set up another.”
Celtic fans will be hoping that both players are fit and ready to take on Feyenoord as the team embarks on its Champions League journey.
Kyogo has a dodgy Shouder so when it takes a hit everyone panics We had All Summer to get in another Striker & the Board Fails the Manager…Oh came on & again failed to Score ( he had best part of 25mins ) so We Rely on a Man who is One Mis-timed tackle away from being Out for Weeks Unbelievable! !