Jozo Out until 2020, better news on Bauer, Bitton, Johnston and Shved

NEIL LENNON today revealed that Croatian star Jozo Simunovic faces around four months on the sidelines after his recent ‘clean-up’ knee operation in London.

And the Celtic gaffer admitted that it could have been worse but is instead now looking towards the resumption of action after the Winter break – when Celtic will as usual head to Dubai – before the defender is likely to be back fully fit.

“It was a clean-up and he knows what to do for his rehab and we are just discussing maybe if he can go away for a few weeks and do his rehab at home,” Lenny said at today’s Media Conference, as reported on Sunday Post.

“He is alright, it is a blow for us and the player. He felt it was a necessity and thankfully it is not a micro-fracture again, which is a serious operation where you are out for six to eight months.

“He has had a clean-up and obviously we have to tread carefully on his rehab – the sooner we get him back the better.”

The manager also revealed that Leigh Griffiths continues to be sidelined with his thigh strain and has now a virus to add to his recent woes. There’s better news on some of the other recently injured stars who are now making their way back into contention.

“Leigh’s injured at the minute. Not only is he out with a thigh strain, he’s got a bit of a virus as well.

“I’m hoping Bitton and Johnston will join the squad training on Monday. Shved’s back in training.

“Bauer missed the game on Wednesday with an ankle injury but he’ll be fine and back in the squad. Looking healthy at the minute.”

A word on Shved, who was mentioned as being ‘dropped’ by his national side this week because he was being starved of game-time at Celtic, ie club’s fault. Actually he picked up an injury while away on international duty last month and that’s him just returned to training, as confirmed by our manager.

Still, it didn’t stop the sly kick at Celtic during the week.

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About Author

The Celtic Star founder and editor David Faulds has edited numerous Celtic books over the past decade or so including several from Lisbon Lions, Willie Wallace, Tommy Gemmell and Jim Craig. Earliest Celtic memories include a win over East Fife at Celtic Park and the 4-1 League Cup loss to Partick Thistle as a 6 year old. Best game? Easy 4-2, 1979 when Ten Men Won the League. Email editor@thecelticstar.co.uk

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