ODSONNE EDOUARD will require a miracle if he is to be fit enough to play any part in next weekend’s Scottish Cup Final against Motherwell at Hampden, after incurring what appears to be a hamstring injury at Tynecastle in Sunday’s 3-1 victory over Hearts.
“Odsonne will struggle for next weekend. It’s been unfortunate really for him,” Brendan Rodgers revealed yesterday.
“We hoped it was maybe cramp, but it’s looking worse than that, so it’s highly unlikely he’ll feature again.
“He’s still here for his treatment. He enjoys being here and you never know, he might make a miraculous recovery for the final. He’s got better and better as the season has gone on. He’s probably going to struggle between now and the end of season.
“He’s adapted very well, you see his qualities. It’s a shame for him if he has to miss out, he’s been a very important member of our squad. Nothing we can do.”
Rodgers also revealed that Chief Executive Peter Lawwell had met with PSG about signing the player – who wants to continue his career at Celtic – on a permanent deal and that talks are now at an advanced stage.
“His contract is pretty clear. Peter has met PSG and talks are ongoing, so I’m hoping we can come to an agreement,” Rodgers stated.
“I know the boy is happy and PSG have enjoyed watching him develop here. It would be great if we could get this one done.”
With Edouard almost certain to miss the Cup Final and Leigh Griffiths still sidelined tonight, Rodgers will have to think hard about the level of exposure he gives to his one available striker Moussa Dembele as he considers his options ahead of the big game at Hampden.
Expect Dembele not to be risked tonight with maybe James Forrest leading the line with Paddy Roberts on the right wing.
“Leigh will be rejoining a training group tomorrow. He wasn’t well last week. He won’t be available tomorrow but should be fine by the weekend,” the manager stated yesterday.
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