James Forrest is at the centre of an injury mystery after Ange Postecoglou revealed that he won’t resume training until after the October international break.
The winger played and scored for Celtic in the 2-0 Europa League win at home to Alkmaar on August 18 but hasn’t featured since then.
Postecoglou spoke hopefully of having Forrest available for the Glasgow derby on August 29 but has been vaguer about a return timeline until today’s media conference.
James Forrest fitness updates are all over the place, which is a massive worry. He was reportedly available in 7-10 days last week and now he’s not available till next month?
McGregor not ready for the game on Thursday is a blow too, you want your captain back ASAP.
— The Cynic (@90MinuteCynic) September 22, 2021
Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou says Greg Taylor’s injury isn’t too serious & could be ok to face Rangers. He’s hoping to have at least James Forrest or James McCarthy back with Josip Juranovic also available for Ibrox. pic.twitter.com/1lmO4eRPrk
— Alison Conroy (@AlisonGConroy) August 27, 2021
Callum McGregor won’t be available for Celtic tomorrow night v Raith. Giakoumakis will be in the squad. Jullien and Forrest expected to be training with first team post international break.
— Jo Hendry (@_jo_hendry) September 22, 2021
Being bracketed alongside Chris Jullien, who hasn’t played this year is a worrying development with the goals, assists and experience of Forrest badly missed as Postecoglou reshapes the Celtic side.
Last September it was discovered that Forrest had been playing with a broken bone in his foot, the original forecast of a three month absence turned into six with the season almost a write off.
Liel Abad has replaced Forrest in the Celtic side but the 21-year-old is brand new to the environment and the demands that come with playing for the club.