Another Celtic player could miss clash v Rangers as list of possible absentees grows longer
Celtic could be without another key player when they take on Rangers in the first Old Firm game of the season next weekend.
Hoops players Odsonne Edouard, Ryan Christie and Nir Bitton are all likely to miss the Old Firm game due to either having COVID-19 or being in close contact with someone who has tested positive for the disease.
Now The Sports Rabbi are reporting that Hatem Elhamed is quarantining after feeling unwell on international duty, meaning Celtic could be missing another key man when they take on Rangers at Celtic Park.
The Israel international has made six appearances in the Scottish Premiership this season, starting four of those games. He has played mainly at centre back but also filled in a right back in the Hoops’ 3-0 win against Motherwell.
Last year’s summer signing only made 14 competitive appearances for Celtic last term as he suffered from a muscle injury that ruled him out for most of the season and it looks as if his bad luck will continue as he is set to miss next weekend’s crucial game.
Rangers should go into next Sunday’s game as favourites with Celtic potentially missing so many players. There is no doubt the Gers defence will sleep a little easier this week at the prospect of not facing the attacking threat of Edouard and Christie.
On the other hand, the Light Blues’ attackers will equally be looking forward to having a go at a Celtic defence missing Bitton and Elhamed, as they look to repeat last year’s memorable 2-1 win at Celtic Park.
A win for Rangers would put them in a great position in their quest for the Scottish title, even though it is very early in the season. A win would give Steven Gerrard’s side great confidence going forward which would be hugely beneficial as the Gers get their Europa League group stage campaign underway just a few days after the Old Firm.
In other Rangers news, a potential signing has been tipped to be ‘best player in Scotland’ if Rangers sign him.