Brendan Rodgers Provides Detailed Update on Cameron Carter-Vickers’ Injury Status
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has shed light on the injury situation surrounding centre-back Cameron Carter-Vickers ahead of the club’s upcoming clash against St Johnstone. The 26-year-old defender was notably absent from the matchday squad in the recent Scottish League Cup fixture against Falkirk, prompting concerns about his availability for the upcoming matches.
The Metatarsal Injury Below the Toe
In a press conference with the media, Rodgers revealed that Carter-Vickers has been dealing with a metatarsal injury located below his toe, which has been causing him significant discomfort. The manager expressed his concerns about the player’s condition, stating that the pain in his big toe joint has been a recurring issue that needed attention.
According to Rodgers, Carter-Vickers had been playing through the pain for some time, but the discomfort escalated during the recent Bratislava game. As a result, the decision was made to give the defender some rest and focus on managing the injury to prevent further complications.
Assessment and Outlook for Recovery
When asked about Carter-Vickers’ availability for the upcoming Champions League clash against Borussia Dortmund, Rodgers remained cautious in his assessment. The manager emphasized the need to monitor the player’s progress on a day-to-day basis and evaluate his fitness closer to the matchday.
Rodgers acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Carter-Vickers’ recovery timeline, stating that the focus for now is on the immediate fixtures before making any definitive decisions about his involvement in future matches. The manager stressed the importance of prioritizing the player’s health and well-being to ensure a full and speedy recovery.
Impact on Celtic’s Defensive Lineup
Carter-Vickers’ absence has forced Rodgers to make adjustments to the team’s defensive lineup, with Auston Trusty stepping in to partner with Stephen Welsh in the heart of the Hoops defense. The manager has been proactive in rotating the squad to account for injuries and maintain the team’s competitive edge in crucial fixtures.
Despite the challenges posed by Carter-Vickers’ injury, Rodgers remains confident in the depth and versatility of his squad, highlighting the contributions of players like Trusty and Welsh in stepping up when called upon. The manager’s strategic approach to managing the team’s defensive options reflects his commitment to ensuring a strong and resilient lineup in the face of adversity.
As Celtic prepares for the upcoming matches, including the highly anticipated clash against Borussia Dortmund, Rodgers will continue to monitor Carter-Vickers’ progress and make decisions based on the player’s fitness and readiness to return to action. The manager’s proactive approach to handling injuries underscores his commitment to the team’s success and long-term performance goals.
