While Celtic did not run up the score in their Premiership win over Dundee, they left with something else: a clean sheet.
Celtic dominated possession throughout the first half as expected, but the breakthrough never arrived before the interval. Dundee were organised, disciplined and offered enough going forward to ensure Celtic could not switch off.
Viljami Sinisalo was called into action after the break, producing an important save to push away a dangerous header. It was a reminder that Dundee were not content to sit in their own half for 90 minutes. They looked to test Martin O’Neill’s side whenever the opportunity presented itself.
That made Cameron Carter-Vickers’ return all the more significant.
The 28-year-old made his first competitive appearance under O’Neill after a long spell on the sidelines. His season had been cut short in October 2025 when he suffered a serious injury during a Europa League match against Sturm Graz under Brendan Rodgers.
His absence was felt over the closing months of last season, but his return against Dundee served as a reminder of what Celtic have been missing.
There is a composure to Carter-Vickers’ game that settles those around him. He rarely looks rushed, relishes the physical side of defending and has an excellent habit of being in the right place when danger develops.
That was evident throughout the 90 minutes.
As per SofaScore, Carter-Vickers finished with a 100 per cent tackle success rate, 17 clearances, three interceptions, five recoveries and a successful last-man challenge. The numbers paint a strong picture, but they only tell part of the story.
Watching the game, it was clear he had slipped straight back into his role at the heart of the defence. There was no sign of a player easing himself back after 10 months without a proper competitive outing. He looked assured from the first whistle and dealt with everything Dundee threw his way.
There will be tougher tests to come, but this was an encouraging first step as he completed the full match.
Celtic’s defensive options have changed over the past year, yet a fully fit Carter-Vickers still looks like the man the rest of the back line can build around. His experience and authority will be invaluable, particularly with a Champions League play-off looming on the horizon.
Whoever lines up alongside him in central defence stands to benefit. If Carter-Vickers can stay fit, Celtic have regained one of the most dependable defenders in the country, and that could prove every bit as important as the goals at the other end this season.
