Celtic will once again be without striker Giorgos Giakoumakis for Thursday evening’s Europa League clash with Bayer Leverkusen, Jo Hendry reports.

The Lowdown: Hoops struggles

The Greece international hasn’t exactly had the start to life in Scotland he would’ve wanted after joining the Hoops on transfer deadline day over the summer.

The 26-year-old, labelled as ‘special’ by Dutch reporter Rik Elfrink after a four-goal performance in one match last season, has started just two games in green and white, scoring once.

He has been in and out of the squad following his arrival due to fitness and injury issues, with his latest knock coming last week.

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The Latest: Out of Leverkusen clash

Ange Postecoglou confirmed to the media that the Hoops look set to be without Tom Rogic and Carl Starfelt, while Giakoumakis also won’t make it for this evening's match in Germany.

Hendry relayed Postecoglou’s comments on Twitter, claiming that the striker requires ‘further investigation’ on his knee injury.

The Verdict: Not good…

Postecoglou shared news of Giakoumakis’ latest injury prior to the Scottish League Cup semi-final win over St Johnstone last week, claiming that he would be out for at least seven days.

However, it now seems as if that will be a lot longer, with the Hoops needing to look into the issue further and no timeframe on a return.

Hopefully it isn’t serious and Giakoumakis can be back playing next month; but if it is, questions may well be asked regarding the £2.5m summer signing and his inability to remain fit.

In other news, read this exciting Jota claim from a journalist.