Martin O’Neill believes Cameron Carter-Vickers is edging closer to his best after the defender’s long-awaited return from a serious Achilles injury.
The American centre-back missed the majority of last season after rupturing his Achilles tendon during Celtic’s Champions League clash with Sturm Graz in October.
His absence was a huge blow to the Hoops, forcing Liam Scales and Auston Trusty to shoulder the burden at the heart of the defence for much of the campaign.
Now, though, Carter-Vickers is back.
The 28-year-old featured in all four of Celtic’s pre-season friendlies and is in contention to start tomorrow night’s Scottish Premiership opener against Dundee.
Speaking ahead of the new season, O’Neill admitted the defender is still building towards full sharpness but is pleased with the progress he has made.
“He’s getting there game by game.
“Obviously, he had a serious injury.
“I’d have to go back and watch some games in the past when he was at his best, but the coaching staff are telling me they think he can get back to what he was, which would be very encouraging.
“I’ve never had him, so I genuinely don’t know what he’s like. I’ve seen him play from a distance, but you don’t know until you’re working with somebody.
“His attitude is very strong, he wants to do well. Each day he’s training – there are only two times out of all the sessions we’ve had, morning and afternoon, that he’s missed out.” [The Herald]
Carter-Vickers has been one of the club’s most influential players since arriving permanently in 2022, and his lengthy absence last season was keenly felt as O’Neill’s side battled through an injury-hit campaign.
His return also restores balance to the back line.
With Carter-Vickers expected to reclaim his place on the right side of central defence, Auston Trusty can move back into his natural left-sided role alongside him.
After spending months working his way back from one of football’s most serious injuries, Carter-Vickers now appears ready to play a major role once again.
If he can rediscover the level that made him one of the Scottish Premiership’s outstanding defenders, it could prove to be one of Celtic’s biggest boosts heading into the new season.
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just seen we MIGHT be selling AJ for 14 million. if they get that paltry amount the board heads must roll. if we sell it must be £25millon
CCV would be like a new signing again unfortunately I think the board must have the same thought process, can’t believe they never learn there lessons and are willing to gamble CL money yet again , so depressing