Celtic will assess Nir Bitton today after he went off injured against Bayer Leverkusen, as per The Daily Record.
The Lowdown: Bitton under Ange
The 30-year-old has had to remain patient under Ange Postecoglou, starting just nine games in all competitions in both defence and in a holding midfield role.
The Israel international has filled in over recent weeks following an injury to Tom Rogic, starting in the Hoops’ last two Premiership fixtures and two Europa League games. However, he had to be withdrawn against Bayer Leverkusen on Thursday evening, and it seems as if he may miss today’s match against Aberdeen as a result.
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The Latest: Assessed before Aberdeen
The Daily Record shared a story on Saturday morning, with Postecoglou commenting on the severity of Bitton’s injury.
The Hoops boss admitted that the 30-year-old will need to be assessed, labelling him as ‘influential’ and saying:
“I was a bit disappointed to see Nir come off and in terms of how he is going to be I’m not really sure.
“We will assess him, but he has been pretty influential for us and did well for the second goal in Germany to help set it up.”
The Verdict: A blow if he’s ruled out
Bitton was actually Celtic’s best-rated player against Bayer Leverkusen during the week, winning 100% of his duels and making multiple defensive contributions. [SofaScore]
The Hoops were in the lead when he had to make way in Germany and ended up conceding twice late on, with the Israeli no longer around to screen the back four.
On that basis, not having him available against Aberdeen could be a big blow. James McCarthy may need to fill in for Bitton, with Postecoglou hopeful that the Irishman is getting there after a slow start to life in green and white.
In other news: Celtic handed transfer message as ‘quick’ £20k-p/w beast admits he’s ‘open’ to Parkhead move