Cameron Carter-Vickers may have been sidelined for months, but his influence at Celtic hasn’t faded.
The centre-back has been out since October with an Achilles injury, a major blow that forced a reshuffle in defence and left a noticeable gap on the pitch.
It’s been a long road back.
Carter-Vickers played through pain before falling to the ground at full-time and requiring treatment. It was then that Celtic fans realised that this was a serious issue that their American had picked up, in the season before a home World Cup.
Now, there are signs of progress.
He was back on the training pitch on Friday, one of his first sessions working with the ball again, which is a positive step, even if a return to action is still some way off.
But according to Martin O’Neill, his importance has never been limited to matchdays. Behind the scenes, he’s remained a key figure, one that players have been looking up to.
“He’s been great, really great,” O’Neill said to the Herald.
“He’s attended all the meetings, he’s in there.
“You can see why he’s been a big figure here. He’s in the dressing room with the players at game time. He doesn’t miss any of these meetings that we have in the mornings. He’s there all the time.
“He’s a big influence. The players look up to him, which is great.”
It’s the kind of presence every squad needs.
Even without playing, Carter-Vickers is setting standards, maintaining leadership and connection within the group during a crucial phase of a bumpy season.
Getting him back will be a boost, but he won’t be rushed back, probably to his frustration.
But until then, his role remains just as important, just out of the spotlight.
Keep Reading
