Celtic will examine the fitness of at least three players ahead of their match against Hibernian this weekend.
The Hoops played on Wednesday, drawing 1-1 with Red Star Belgrade to begin their Europa League campaign.
Cameron Carter-Vickers was the only one of the trio to play in Belgrade before returning to domestic action, which will take place at Celtic Park.
Saturday, September 27th: Premiership
Celtic vs Hibernian at 07:00
With a seemingly never-ending fixture list, Brendan Rodgers will want as many people as possible for the run-in.
Below is an update on all three players’ injury recovery statuses.
Alistair Johnston still not ready to return to the squad
Alistair Johnston suffered an injury in the Champions League play-off first leg against Kairat Almaty and will be out until November.
The Canadian has given Celtic a tiny boost, however, and appears to be ahead of plan, which might mean he returns sooner rather than later.
He stated on the Park the Bus podcast that he is “taking it day by day” but feels “really good”.
Johnston has yet to resume training with the squad, but he could return in a few weeks.
Anthony Ralston likely to return for Celtic against Hibernian
Anthony Ralston returned to training ahead of the Red Star game, but he was passed over as Colby Donovan impressed once more.
Ralston would have been the first pick to replace Johnston at right-back following his injury, but he suffered a setback following the Glasgow derby.
While he may be fit to play again, there is no assurance that he will return to the starting lineup given Donovan’s recent strong efforts.
Cameron Carter-Vickers spotted suffering with injury vs Red Star.
Carter-Vickers is one player that Celtic cannot afford to lose. The American has created an effective relationship with Liam Scales, which is why the Bhoys have only conceded three goals in all competitions thus far.
Carter-Vickers was seen struggling during the game against Red Star, with the centre-back supposedly hobbling towards the end of Wednesday night’s match.
Rodgers, who missed most of the preseason due to injury, will be hoping and praying that this isn’t serious.
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