Brendan Rodgers has provided an update on Celtic’s injury situation ahead of Sunday’s Glasgow Derby showdown at Ibrox, and it’s largely positive from a Celtic perspective.
Speaking to the press on Friday afternoon, the Hoops boss confirmed that Anthony Ralston, who didn’t train with the group on Friday, is expected to return to training on Saturday and should be in contention for the match. Colby Donevan had replaced him midweek, and impressed
“No, Tony Ralston didn’t train today, but he should be okay tomorrow. We’ll see that,” Rodgers said on Celtic TV.
The only confirmed absentees remain Auston Trusty, who continues to deal with a heel issue, and Alistair Johnston, sidelined with a serious hamstring injury sustained against Kairat Almaty in the first leg. Otherwise, Rodgers has a near-full squad to choose from for what is shaping up to be a vital early-season clash.
Meanwhile, Rangers are dealing with issues of their own. Midfielder Nico Raskin is a major doubt for the home side after he seemingly trained away from the group this week, while the pressure continues to mount on Russell Martin following a bruising 6-0 midweek defeat to Club Brugge and growing rumours of a fractured dressing room.
Celtic come into the derby looking to bounce back from their own European disappointment, having crashed out of the Champions League on penalties against Kairat. A strong performance and result at Ibrox would be a timely response and could also heap more misery on their city rivals, whose manager is already under heavy scrutiny.
All eyes will be on the team sheets and Rodgers’ final selection when Celtic take to the pitch on Sunday afternoon.
