Celtic have been dealt a major injury blow ahead of the club’s clash with Rangers after James Forrest was officially ruled out of the game.
£5m Swiss summer signing Albian Ajeti is also a major doubt after picking up a hamstring knock for what promises to be a crunch clash even this early into the Scottish Premiership season.
Celtic manager Neil Lennon confirmed the major doubts concerning both players as he looked ahead to our rival’s Europa League Playoff match in Sarajevo.
“Yes, I would imagine so [Forrest will be out],” said Lennon [Glasgow Times].
“Ajeti won’t travel, he’s not fit and not available, neither is James as we touched on before.
“We are hoping Albian will be fit for the Rangers game in a few weeks’ time.”
The news is obviously a boost to Rangers who will have one eye on the contest which is scheduled to go ahead behind-closed-doors at Celtic Park on October 17th and 12:30pm.
Rangers are not without their own injuries worries ahead of the tie but have boosted by the news that three first-team players have stepped up their recovery ahead of the match.
Ibrox duo Kemar Roofe and Joe Aribo have been snapped back in the gym as they look to recover from a calf knock and ankle injury.
Rangers midfielder Ryan Jack is also back in full training after being subbed off in the 4-0 win over Dundee United and has earned himself a spot in the Scotland national team squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League playoffs.
Rangers winger Brandon Barker is also back amongst the squad but Gers boss Steven Gerrard has also revealed Swiss striker Cedric Itten has picked up a knee knock [Rangers].
Croatian defender Niko Katic is a long-term absentee after damaging his cruciate ligament in pre-season.
