Celtic dealt injury blow as James Forrest set for a scan

Neil Lennon could find himself without one of his key players for a considerable amount of time after he confirmed that James Forrest would have to undergo a scan after sustaining an injury against Riga.

The Celtic manager confirmed the need for Forrest to receive further medical assessments to the Daily Record:

James is struggling a bit. He’s got bruising on the ankle and he’ll need a scan either Friday or Saturday. I don’t know how long he could be out for. He’s really sore and tender. It’s a big worry for us. He’s had it for a couple of weeks, but he’s been able to handle it okay. But it was just too much for him and we had to make the substitution.

The Scottish winger was replaced by Jeremie Frimpong on the advice of medical staff in the first half, as the Bhoys clinched a last-gasp winning goal against Latvian side Riga.

The potential severity of this bruising could cause short-term worry for Lennon’s side as the transfer deadline looms.

Celtic are short of natural right-sided wingers, and may look to address this depth issue by recruiting further talent to provide competition.

Manchester City outcast Patrick Roberts has been widely touted with a move to Celtic Park.

He is seen as having ‘no future’ with Pep Guardiola’s side and consequentially may be available at an affordable price for the Scottish champions.