Kasper Schmeichel’s absence from Celtic’s matchday squad has now been explained ahead of this afternoon’s Scottish Cup tie against Dundee at Celtic Park.
It is Viljami Sinisalo who starts in goal for Celtic, with Ross Doohan named among the substitutes. Schmeichel, however, is not involved at all.
Providing clarity before kick-off, Iona Ballantyne, Premier Sports’ pitchside reporter for the match, confirmed the decision was fitness-related rather than tactical. She said: “There’s no Kasper Schmeichel today, he’s getting some work done on his shoulder.” [Live on Premier Sports]
Schmeichel has been managing a shoulder issue for some time. The problem surfaced during the festive period, when he missed the match against Livingston, and it is understood he has required injections in recent weeks to help manage the discomfort. With a busy schedule ahead, Celtic appear to have taken the opportunity to give the goalkeeper additional recovery time.
The match itself presents an interesting backdrop. Dundee have not won at Celtic Park since 2001, although they did claim a notable victory over Celtic earlier this season, beating the Hoops at Dens Park for the first time in 37 years. That result will ensure there is no sense of complacency from the home side despite the historical record.
Sinisalo’s inclusion offers a chance for the young goalkeeper to gain valuable experience, while Schmeichel’s omission looks to be a precautionary call rather than a major concern. The expectation remains that the Dane will return once his shoulder issue has settled again.
