Celtic Blow as Yang Set to Miss Four Huge Games — Including Ibrox Trip and Celtic Park Showdown

The Celtic blow caused by Yang Hyun-jun’s South Korea call-up could hardly have arrived at a more demanding point in the season.

Yang is expected to join South Korea’s Asian Games squad in Japan on September 6, meaning he should remain available for Celtic’s trip to St Mirren the previous day.

After that, Martin O’Neill looks set to lose the winger for four important fixtures.

South Korea’s Asian Games campaign could run until October 3 if they reach the final, potentially keeping Yang away from Celtic for almost four weeks.

Celtic blow hits a huge September schedule

The first game Yang is expected to miss is the rearranged Premiership trip to St Johnstone on September 9.

Four days later comes the biggest domestic test of the spell.

Celtic travel to Ibrox on September 13 for their Premier Sports Cup quarter-final against the Ibrox club.

Yang will then be absent as Celtic begin their Europa League campaign at home to Ferencváros on September 17.

That is followed just three days later by another huge encounter when the Ibrox club visit Celtic Park on September 20.

Four matches. Two Glasgow derbies. European football. All within 12 days.

That is a serious chunk of football to lose a first-team attacking option.

Celtic blow again exposes need for squad depth

Celtic have reportedly agreed to release Yang even though the Asian Games falls outside the normal FIFA international window.

It is understandable from the player’s perspective. Winning the tournament could have important implications regarding South Korea’s mandatory military service.

However, Celtic knew this situation was coming.

That makes adequate squad depth absolutely essential.

O’Neill cannot be expected to navigate league football, Europe and cup competition with a squad lacking proven options.

Yang’s absence should not become a crisis in itself. The concern is what happens when it combines with injuries, suspensions or loss of form elsewhere.

Celtic desperately need more quality through the door before the transfer window closes.

September’s fixture list explains exactly why.

Key Takeaways

• Yang is expected to join South Korea on September 6.
• He could remain away until October 3 if South Korea reach the final.
• Celtic could lose him for four consecutive matches.
• Those include the Ibrox cup trip and Celtic Park league showdown.
• His absence further highlights Celtic’s urgent need for greater squad depth.