Brendan Rodgers has confirmed that Paulo Bernardo is a doubt for Celtic’s trip to Dens Park on Sunday after the midfielder was struck down by illness.
Bernardo has struggled to build momentum this season after a stop-start campaign last term. His performances in training have impressed Rodgers, yet his progress has once again been interrupted by an untimely setback. The Celtic manager confirmed that the player will be monitored over the next 24 hours before any decision is made on his involvement.
Rodgers is expected to have the rest of his first-team players available, including Alistair Johnston, who returned to training this week after injury.
While Bernardo’s absence wouldn’t force major changes, his creative ability and energy in midfield have made him a useful option from the bench. Rodgers will now weigh up whether to risk him or give him additional recovery time with a busy schedule ahead.
He said: (Celtic FC YouTube), “Paulo Bernardo’s been ill, so we’ll see how he recovers in the next 24 hours.
“Apart from that, everyone’s okay.”
Bernardo’s potential absence comes as Celtic look to keep their strong form going away from home. Rodgers has rotated his midfield effectively this season, but he’ll want every available option for what he expects to be a physical game at Dens Park.
The illness is understood to be minor, but Celtic’s medical staff will take no chances given the demanding run of fixtures that follows. With the squad otherwise fully fit, Rodgers has flexibility in selection, a welcome change from earlier in the campaign.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers REUTERS/Marko Djurica
For Bernardo, the setback is a frustration after working his way back into contention. Rodgers has spoken highly of the 23-year-old’s attitude and technical ability, and will be hopeful he’s available for selection once he’s fully recovered.
As Celtic travel north, the focus will be on maintaining rhythm and sharpness, but Rodgers’ calm update suggests confidence that the illness won’t sideline Bernardo for long, a reassuring sign as the champions look to keep their momentum rolling.
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