Martin O’Neill has given a positive update on Kieran Tierney after the defender missed the Scottish Cup win over Rangers at Ibrox.
Tierney was not involved as Celtic battled through 120 minutes before winning the tie on penalties. The left-back had been carrying a knock after the midweek match against Aberdeen and did not recover in time for the trip to Ibrox.
His absence forced changes in the defence. Liam Scales shifted across to cover the left side and spent most of the afternoon dealing with Rangers attacks from wide areas. Celtic defended deep for long spells while the home side pushed forward.
Despite the pressure, Celtic held on and eventually came through the shootout. Tomas Cvancara scored the winning penalty to send the travelling support into celebration and book a place in the Scottish Cup semi-finals.
O’Neill said: (TCW), “I think Kieran should, if I thought that he might have been able to have done maybe 30 minutes, all being well today, which he could not.
“I’m hoping that he will be back for next week.”
Celtic now turn their attention back to league duty with a trip to Motherwell coming next weekend. The match arrives during a busy run of fixtures and O’Neill will hope to have more options available.
Tierney’s return would give Celtic a natural left-back again. During the cup tie, Scales stayed deeper and rarely pushed forward because Rangers were pressing down that side of the pitch.
Having Tierney back would change that balance. His ability to drive forward from defence often helps Celtic stretch teams and move the ball higher up the pitch.
For now, O’Neill appears cautiously optimistic. The manager suggested the injury was not serious and that the defender could be ready when Celtic face Motherwell at Celtic Park.
