Friday 2pm Update: Brendan Rodgers shared further insight into Celtic’s growing injury concerns after the 2-1 win over Sturm Graz, confirming that Cameron Carter-Vickers was struggling late in the match.
The defender was seen limping off the pitch after full-time, prompting fears of another potential setback for the manager, who had already lost Alistair Johnston and Kelechi Iheanacho to injuries in the first half.
Carter-Vickers played through discomfort during the closing stages of the Europa League game, helping Celtic protect their lead as the visitors pushed for an equaliser. His commitment to see out the match was evident, but Rodgers revealed that he was unable to make a change due to the team having already used their substitution windows.
The manager admitted that the situation was far from ideal, particularly with the schedule tightening ahead of a crucial domestic fixture at Tynecastle on Sunday. His tone reflected both relief at securing the win and frustration that circumstances prevented him from resting a key player in obvious discomfort.
Rodgers explained that the new substitution rules, which limit managers to three moments of change during play, restricted Celtic’s ability to react when Carter-Vickers began to struggle near the end of the game.
He said: (TNT Sports), “Well our problem was in the second half we could only make one substitution.
“So obviously Cam was struggling towards the end but we couldn’t get him off because we’d already made the subs.
“Obviously you’ve got only three moments to make the subs in the game.”
Rodgers’ comments show the growing sense of frustration surrounding Celtic’s recent luck with injuries. Having only just regained stability in defence, the prospect of losing Carter-Vickers again would be a significant concern for both the Irishman and supporters.
The American centre-back has been a commanding presence since returning from long-term injury, and his influence in leadership and organisation is difficult to replace. Any further issue could leave Rodgers short of experience at the back heading into a busy period.
With the trip to Hearts fast approaching, Celtic’s medical staff now face a race against time to assess Carter-Vickers’ condition. The manager will be desperate for positive news, given the importance of Sunday’s top-of-the-table clash and the leadership qualities the defender brings to the side.
Despite the injury scare, Rodgers praised his squad’s resilience and focus under pressure. However, as the celebrations from Thursday night fade, the attention quickly shifts to recovery and readiness, two factors that could determine Celtic’s momentum in both domestic and European competition.
