Celtic could have a fresh injury concern after Cameron Carter-Vickers appeared to struggle during the second half of the 1-1 Europa League draw against Red Star Belgrade.
The USA international has only recently returned to full fitness after undergoing tidy-up surgery in the summer, following a campaign where he battled through persistent issues. That operation forced him to miss the start of pre-season, but the defender had looked to have put those problems behind him as he slotted back into Brendan Rodgers’ side.
However, there were signs of discomfort in Belgrade as Carter-Vickers laboured through the closing stages. Rodgers resisted the temptation to replace him, but it now leaves a question mark hanging over his availability in the coming weeks.
Dane Murray has impressed when called upon, showing composure beyond his years, but losing Carter-Vickers would still be a huge blow given his importance at the heart of the defence. Celtic host Hibs at home this weekend – a game where Rodgers may feel Murray could handle the occasion – but sterner tests lie ahead.
Braga arrive in Glasgow next Thursday, bringing serious attacking quality, while Motherwell’s attacking start to the Premiership campaign makes their trip to Parkhead a dangerous assignment. Both matches are the type where Carter-Vickers’ leadership and presence are invaluable.
The upcoming international break could provide some much-needed respite, but much will depend on whether the Celtic vice-captain is carrying a knock or suffering a recurrence of last season’s problems.
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