James Forrest says that despite the injuries, Celtic still have enough quality in the squad to catch Hearts…
Celtic have been hit hard by injuries, with the biggest setback being Cameron Carter-Vickers potentially sidelined for up to five months due to a torn Achilles.
Cameron Carter-Vickers, Alistair Johnston, and Kelechi Iheanacho will all miss Sunday’s clash against league leaders Hearts at Tynecastle, while Daizen Maeda remains a serious injury concern.
Despite the trio of injuries suffered on Thursday night against SK Sturm Graz, Forrest is confident the Scottish champions have the depth to close the five-point gap on Hearts.
Speaking via The Herald, Forrest said: “We have got a squad full of international players and players that have been there and done it as well. It’s good for the manager as well that he knows he’s got players there to cover for the guys that are out.
“It’s not an excuse. I think every team, every manager will have problems throughout the season. It’s just unlucky for us we’ve got a couple out now. Obviously, every game is massive for Celtic, but we know it’s on the line on Sunday. We’re just going to need to work hard and get through this tough period.”
The 34 year-old added: “Everybody knows the worst part of football is getting injured and obviously a long-term injury as well. All the lads will be right behind him the full time he’s out, but he’s a real strong character as well. No doubt he’ll come back and he’ll come back strong.
“Everyone rates him so highly and he just always goes about his business. He’s quiet and he’s a hard worker, but his quality on the pitch is obviously unreal, you look at what he’s done for Celtic since he’s been here.
“Now everyone will be desperate for him to have a speedy recovery,” Forrest continued. “Ali is another similar character to Carter Vickers. Since he’s come into Celtic he’s been unbelievable and every time he plays he gives the team so much. So obviously we’re disappointed for him and hopefully it’s not too long before he’s back.”
Meanwhile James Forrest joined Anthony Ralston and Celtic captain Callum McGregor at Barrowfields yesterday afternoon to see the new facility up and running and to speak to Sky Sports to preview Sunday’s game against Hearts at Tynecastle. You can watch how that went below…
⚽️ We’ve been granted behind the scenes access at Celtic’s new training facility at Barrowfield.
Hear Callum McGregor, Anthony Ralston & James Forrest ahead of Sunday’s game vs Hearts, live on Sky from 11am ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/bDiumQqUYv
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) October 24, 2025
Conor Spence
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