Celtic injury news offers Hibs boost as options finally grow
Returning players could strengthen O’Neill’s bench at Easter Road, but the midfield still needs January attention.
Phillip Cooney 
Celtic’s injury news finally offers something supporters have been craving: the prospect of a bench that gives Martin O’Neill choices.
Shaun Maloney’s update raised hopes that Cameron Carter-Vickers and Alistair Johnston could make Sunday’s squad at Hibs, provided their recovery continues smoothly.
That qualification matters. Neither return is guaranteed. However, with Jota already back in domestic action, the picture is improving.
Celtic injury news brings welcome options
The Scotsman also reports that Callum Osmand should be available after O’Neill attributed his latest withdrawal against Celta Vigo to cramp.
Importantly, nobody needs to rush every returning player into the starting eleven. Their presence alone would give Celtic greater scope to manage minutes and change a match.
Johnston would provide competition for Colby Donovan and allow the youngster a breather when required. Carter-Vickers would strengthen the central defensive options alongside Liam Scales and Dane Murray.
Meanwhile, Landon Emenalo’s arrival after rehabilitation offers another option on the left behind Kieran Tierney.
Jota’s return adds invention and competition further forward. That should raise standards across the attack, rather than automatically close the door on anyone else.
After the questions raised by Celtic’s European struggles, this is welcome encouragement.
The midfield still needs attention
Yet a healthier squad does not automatically produce a balanced one.
I remember midfields with Matt O’Riley’s intelligence, Reo Hatate’s invention and Callum McGregor at his commanding best. That is the standard we should demand.
Mika Baur looks, to me, like someone worth building around. Benjamin Nygren’s goals are valuable, but I want greater influence when Celtic lose possession. Luke McCowan and Oliver Sørensen offer alternatives; I remain unconvinced the combination provides enough control.
January must address the missing balance
This concern has a concrete summer backdrop. Sky Sports confirmed Celtic failed to land Gvidas Gineitis. O’Neill subsequently acknowledged “more than an interest” in the Torino midfielder, explaining that negotiations proved the obstacle.
For me, leaving that requirement unresolved was a recruitment failure. January must bring the midfield strength and balance the manager still needs.
For now, welcome the returning quality. A stronger bench at Easter Road would be a considerable lift. It must also become the platform for a better Celtic.
