Celtic trio return to the squad for Saturday’s semi-final against Aberdeen in a major boost for Brendan Rodgers…
Skipper Callum McGregor alongside Nicolas Kuhn and Adam Idah were all missing from the Celtic squad that defeated Dundee comfortably last night 2-0 at Paradise.
Rodgers taking no chances with his captain
Absent from the action at Fir Park on Sunday, captain McGregor missed the match through a slight niggle. No risks were taken for yesterday evening’s league clash with Dundee which allowed the 31 year-old to have a prolonged rest heading into an exciting double header against Aberdeen and then RB Leipzig in the Champions League next Tuesday.
Meanwhile, Adam Idah was on the receiving end of a shocking challenge by Liam Gordon in North Lanarkshire on Sunday. The tackle forced the Irishman to go for a scan and therefore miss Celtic’s match against Tony Docherty’s side. Nicolas Kuhn was also notably not in the Hoops matchday squad last night probing concerns for his availability for Saturday’s semi-final at the national stadium.
Bubble to burst at Hampden
Speaking to BBC Scotland Celtic manager declared all three fit for the clash with Jimmy Thelin’s high-flying Dons, with Celtic looking to burst that bubble at the weekend.
“Adam Idah, Nicolas Kuhn and Callum McGregor will all be fine for the weekend. Callum could’ve been involved tonight but there was no need to risk it. Kuhn had a bit of an issue with his hip after the weekend, again no need to risk it. Good news on Adam with the scan, he got away with it after the challenge and hopefully he’ll be ready for Saturday.”
Heading into Saturday’s compelling semi-final with Aberdeen, this is exactly the type of news Celtic fans want to be hearing.
One domestic run will end
Undoubtedly, all three will have huge roles to play for Brendan Rodgers and will be pivotal in our aim of trying to become the first team to end Jimmy Thelin’s unbeaten run since arriving from Sweden in the summer.
Likewise, the Hoops will be eyeing to retain their unbeaten domestic run of 12 matches this campaign, and gain that extra confidence booster before heading into another enthralling encounter versus RB Leipzig in the Champions League next Tuesday.
🗣️ 'My only focus is on ourselves'
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers on his side's win, 'real leader' Alistair Johnston and reacts to Aberdeen beating Rangers ⤵️#BBCFootball pic.twitter.com/eG97drMUx3
— BBC Sport Scotland (@BBCSportScot) October 30, 2024
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Conor Spence