Celtic face injury setback as they aim to close in on Premiership title
Celtic are on the verge of another significant stride towards securing the Scottish Premiership crown this Saturday, but Brendan Rodgers has been dealt a blow with a key player sidelined for the coming weeks.
Bhoys eye strong finish amid scrutiny
Despite facing criticism, Celtic remain firmly on track for a domestic treble and could wrap up their fourth consecutive league title if they defeat Kilmarnock and Rangers fall to Aberdeen on Sunday.
However, Rodgers has cautioned his team against complacency following a surprise 1-0 loss to St Johnstone last weekend. He noted a worrying pattern in recent performances, saying: “It’s happened too many times. There’s a trend I’m seeing now, and the mentality will be key in the closing weeks.”
Celtic have stumbled in recent outings, suffering three defeats in their last seven league matches. While a congested schedule may partly explain their dip in form, Rodgers is seeking a clear response from his squad.
Transfer plans underway as Rodgers looks ahead
With the summer transfer window in sight, Celtic are already preparing to reinforce their squad. Danish striker Mathias Kvistgaarden has re-emerged as a potential target, following an unsuccessful January bid. Meanwhile, Martin Dubravka of Newcastle United has been linked with a move to Parkhead, though the presence of Kasper Schmeichel and Viljami Sinisalo makes a deal seem less likely.
Injury sidelines Yang Hyun-jun
In the short term, Rodgers will be forced to tweak his lineup after confirming that winger Yang Hyun-jun is set to miss at least two weeks. The South Korean picked up an elbow sprain after an awkward fall during the St Johnstone defeat and is now wearing a sling.
“Yang will be out. He’s got a slight elbow sprain and will be in a sling for a couple of weeks,” Rodgers confirmed. “Hopefully he’ll return before the season ends—we’ll reassess after that.”
Signed for £2 million from Gangwon FC last year, the 22-year-old’s absence could open the door for veteran winger James Forrest to play a more prominent role, especially with Nicolas Kuhn struggling for consistency.
Still, Rodgers has multiple options out wide as he looks to guide Celtic to another domestic clean sweep.
