Celtic have released their official 2026/27 squad photograph, but three first-team players are notably absent from the annual picture.
It is a formality in the modern game, but the annual squad photo remains a staple of the football calendar and provides plenty of content for clubs to use across their social media channels throughout the season.
The latest Celtic image features the majority of Martin O’Neill’s squad – although three familiar faces are missing.
There is no reason for concern over any of the absences, with each player having a straightforward explanation for not featuring.
Your #CelticFC 2026/27 squad photo! 📸🍀 pic.twitter.com/vxKk3Daf64
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) September 8, 2026
Summer signing Landon Emenalo is absent as he continues his recovery from the knock he picked up around the time of his move to Parkhead.
Yang Hyun-jun is also missing, although his absence is expected. The South Korean winger has travelled away on international duty and is currently with his national team.
The most surprising omission is Liam Scales.
The Irish defender does not feature in the official photograph despite being part of O’Neill’s first-team plans.
However, there is absolutely nothing to worry about regarding Scales.
The defender was involved in training on Tuesday ahead of Celtic’s trip to St Johnstone, meaning his absence from the photograph is not injury related.
And there was another welcome sight for supporters in the picture, with Jota included.
The Portuguese winger is continuing his recovery as he works his way back towards full fitness, with Celtic hoping he can return to action in the coming weeks.
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