Celtic defender Hatem Abd Elhamed is the latest Parkhead star to be affected by the coronavirus as he goes into quarantine ahead of the match with Rangers.
The Israel international has been forced into quarantine after complaining about not feeling well and will be tested later today.
Elhamed, 29, joins a growing list of Celtic players who are doubts for the Scottish Premiership match amid several issues regarding the coronavirus during the international break.
Celtic defender-turned-midfielder Nir Bitton will miss the match after testing positive for coronavirus.
Bitton’s absence also comes after he defied Neil Lennon’s wishes regarding playing for his country during this international break [Daily Record].
The Israeli international joins French U21 striker Odsonne Edouard in contracting the virus on international duty, whilst influential midfielder Ryan Christie is in self-isolation.
The Scotland international had been exposed to the virus by spending time with Stuart Armstrong – who tested positive – whilst on Scotland duty.
Celtic are also set to be without James Forrest with an ankle injury whilst £5m summer striker signing Albian Ajeti faces a race against time to be fit.
Celtic boss Neil Lennon has also previously claimed it is “vital” that matches go ahead even amid outbreaks at clubs.
“I don’t know what advantage would be gained by stopping things and starting up again later,” said Lennon [BBC Scotland].
“I don’t know how feasible that would be in terms of fixtures and the way the calendar is set out. I’m hoping it won’t be necessary, unless there’s a deluge [of cases] and it gets out of control.
“In conjunction with a lot of other leagues around the world, we’re getting a few positive tests. But you’ve got to carry on. I think it’s vital that we do.”
Fears about the match being rescheduled have also been rebuffed by the Scottish Government who claim there are no plans at present to postpone the match.
