Shaun Maloney Reveals Why ‘Fozzy’ Has Been So Important to Jota’s Recovery

Mark Fotheringham has quickly become one of the most popular figures at Celtic.

Whether it’s his infectious personality on the training ground or the warm welcomes he gives new signings, Fozzy has become a firm favourite with supporters since returning to Parkhead as part of Martin O’Neill’s coaching staff.

It took a little longer than expected for both Fotheringham and Shaun Maloney to finalise their contracts over the summer, but with that uncertainty now behind them, the coaching team appears to be thriving.

Their impact has been felt behind the scenes too.

As Jota continues his recovery from the serious knee injury that has sidelined him since last season, Celtic have gone to great lengths to ensure the Portuguese winger remains closely connected to the first-team environment.

Part of Jota’s rehabilitation was completed in Portugal, with the club’s medical department maintaining daily contact throughout his recovery.

O’Neill, Maloney and Fotheringham also stayed in regular communication through video calls, making sure one of Celtic’s biggest stars didn’t feel isolated during such a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Speaking about the support Jota has received, Maloney singled out Fotheringham for special praise.

“Fozzy is the most positive guy in the world.

“He’s been really, really good with him.

“But also Martin. Martin’s been really, really good with him in terms of constantly being in communication.” [TCW]

Those comments offer another insight into why Fotheringham has become such a valued member of Celtic’s coaching staff.

His energy and enthusiasm are obvious to supporters watching from the stands, but it is clear those qualities are equally appreciated inside Lennoxtown.

For a player like Jota, facing what will be an absence of more than 18 months by the time he returns, maintaining that connection with teammates and coaches can be just as important as the physical rehabilitation.

Encouragingly, the winger took another step forward this week by participating in part of first-team training before continuing his recovery work in the gym.

While there has been no change to the expected timeline, with a return still anticipated around October, the latest updates suggest Jota is continuing to make steady progress.

And if Maloney’s comments are anything to go by, Fotheringham has played a significant role in helping keep the Portuguese star smiling throughout one of the toughest periods of his career.