The international break has not gone well for Celtic, as some of their players like Odsonne Edouard and Ryan Christie are currently having to isolate.
With the Old Firm derby against Glasgow Rangers coming up this weekend, this is not what the club would have wanted. The news goes from bad to worse as the Hoops have recently announced that another one of their players is now having to isolate.
Who is the newest Celtic player having to isolate?
The club reported, via Twitter, that defender Hatem Abd Elhamed is now having to isolate for the next couple of weeks. This is due to him recently testing positive for COVID-19.
In their statement, the club said, ‘We are, of course, disappointed and frustrated that another player on international duty has tested positive – during an international period which is continuing to present huge challenges for the Club.’
How big a blow is this for Celtic?
Obviously the Hoops will always want to have a fully fit squad available. However, this was very hard to achieve in football with players picking up injuries and it is even harder now due to recent events.
The number players unavailable is mounting up for Neil Lennon and these absenses have come at possibly the worst possible time due to their huge game this weekend as their fierce rivals sit one point above them in the Scottish Premiership.
Will Abd Elhamed's absence impact the club heavily?
Yes
No
The nine-capped international has been a vital asset for Celtic so far this season as he has featured nine times this campaign, per Transfermarkt. This includes playing in six of the nine SPFL games.
The fact that he has played in a lot of matches, including crucial ones such as European qualifiers, highlights that Elhamed has been a favourite for the manager this season.
Lennon even revealed his delight at Elhamed’s recent performances, saying he was ‘very pleased’ with him after one of their European qualifying games this season.
Therefore, this will big a big blow for the club, and all associated with Celtic will be hoping that no more players will be having to isolate following the international break.
Celtic fans, what are your thoughts on this news? Comment below!
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