Viljami Sinisalo has opened up on Kasper Schmeichel’s situation after the experienced goalkeeper went through the first of two shoulder operations.
Schmeichel has been out since the issue came to light before the international break, leaving Celtic to head into the final part of the season without him. That has meant a change in goal, with Sinisalo stepping in at a point where every game carries real pressure.
The injury has also brought his future into focus. Schmeichel’s deal runs out in the summer, and with another operation still to come, it now looks more likely that his time at the club is nearing its end. The recovery timeline alone makes a return this season unlikely.
For now, attention stays on his recovery and the matches still to be played. Sinisalo spoke about the support for Schmeichel in the dressing room, while also touching on the reality of stepping into the role himself.
He said: (Celtic FC YouTube), “Yes, it’s a spot within sport. I’ve probably said that many a time.
“It’s a really lonely position.
“There’s no position like it on the football pitch.
“He’s been fine. I saw him before the international break, before he obviously went and got his operation.
“He’s not been in since, obviously, because he’s had that, but we all wish him all the very best. Obviously, the stuff that came out is never nice to hear. But, yes, we’re going to try and do our best to go and win the next game and see where it takes us.
“But, yes, everyone wishes all the very best to him.”
It leaves Celtic leaning on Sinisalo during a spell where small moments decide games. One save, one decision, one mistake can shift the outcome, especially against teams who sit deep and wait.
There’s also a bigger call to come. If Schmeichel does move on, the club will need to decide if Sinisalo is ready to take that role long term or if they look elsewhere.
Right now, though, the focus doesn’t move far from the next game. Schmeichel works through his recovery, while Celtic carry on with a new presence in goal.
Kasper should never be allowed near Celtic Park ever again! He played in games that cost us points when he knew full wegoing in that he was unfit and should NOT have played! He should have been professional enough to inform the manager that he wasn’t fit to play! Due to his selfishness, we are trailing in the league, AND out of Europe!