Martin O’Neill has confirmed Colby Donovan will miss the next couple of games through injury, with the defender now targeting a return later in the month.
The young full-back has picked up a hamstring problem at a time when Celtic are already stretched in that area. With Julian Araujo ruled out for the season and Alistair Johnston only just returning to training, options have been limited.
Donovan had been in the frame during that period, offering cover and energy down the right. His absence now forces another change as Celtic head into a run of fixtures where consistency at the back is needed.
The timeline suggests he is unlikely to be available until the home match against Falkirk on April 25. That gives him time to recover properly, but it does leave a gap in the immediate schedule.
O’Neill said: (Celtic FC YouTube), “Colby Donovan, he has a hamstring problem, so he’ll be out.
“Hopefully not for too long. I don’t think so anyway.
“He might miss next week as well too.
“But yeah, he’s doing well in recovery.”
That update gives some clarity. It’s not a long-term issue, but it comes at a point where Celtic could have used another option in that position.
The right-back role has been unsettled in recent weeks. Injuries have forced changes, and that has had an effect on how the team builds play. Without a natural option, the shape can shift and the balance changes.
Anthony Ralston now looks set to start the next two games against St Mirren. That brings a different profile to the role, with Ralston more focused on defensive work and direct delivery when he gets forward.
There is also the physical demand. Full-backs at Celtic are expected to get up and down the pitch, offering width in attack while still covering defensively. Losing players in that role puts more strain on those available.
For now, the focus will be on getting Donovan back without rushing the process. A return against Falkirk would give him a chance to ease back in before the final games.
