Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has provided an update on the fitness of wingers Daizen Maeda and Nicolas Kuhn after both were ruled out of this weekend’s trip to Ross County.
The duo’s absence had raised concerns, particularly with crucial Champions League fixtures looming, but Rodgers has reassured supporters that the injuries are not serious.
Rodgers confirmed that Maeda and Kuhn’s injuries are precautionary, with both players undergoing scans to determine the extent of the issues.
“Daizen has obviously played a lot of football and just felt something that we didn’t want to aggravate,” Rodgers told Celtic TV.
“He’s gone for a scan so it’s not too serious but it just rules him out of this game.
“And likewise with Nicolas, he felt something just in the warm-up, had the scan, nothing too serious, but just too much of a risk and he won’t be able to go this weekend.
“Luis Palma sadly had a bereavement overnight so he won’t travel with the squad. James Forrest is still out.”
While both players will miss the Ross County clash, Rodgers hinted at their potential availability for Tuesday’s match away to Dundee.
The fixture will mark Celtic’s third game in six days amid a congested schedule, making the duo’s recovery crucial for squad depth.
Celtic’s options on the wings are currently stretched, with James Forrest sidelined until February and Luis Palma unavailable due to a family bereavement. Hyun-jun Yang is the only fully fit senior winger available for selection, raising the possibility of tactical adjustments or the deployment of players in less familiar roles.
Despite these challenges, Celtic remain in a commanding position domestically and will aim to maintain their momentum in Dingwall. The news that Maeda and Kuhn’s injuries are minor will come as a relief to fans, particularly with Champions League fixtures against Young Boys and Aston Villa on the horizon.
For the next game, what about utilising the remaining squad to play 4-4-2 with the diamond in the middle and attacking directly through the middle with two attackers plus an attacking midfielder – or something similar, to give County something to think about? There is no real reason why we can’t change shape to suit who we have available.