Celtic manager Martin O'Neill faces a significant squad puzzle with five first-team players unavailable for selection. The situation, reported by the Daily Record Football this week, comes as the Scottish Premiership leaders prepare for a busy fixture schedule.
Yang Hyun-jun's anticipated £3 million transfer to Birmingham City fell through, leaving the 24-year-old winger at the club but immediately unavailable. He has been called up for the Asian Games, ruling him out of the upcoming match against St Johnstone, the double-header against Rangers, and the Europa League clash with Ferencvaros. This is a blow given his form; Yang has three goal contributions in seven appearances this season, including a winner against St Mirren and a goal in the 3-0 victory over Aberdeen.
Who are the five missing Celtic players?
The absentees extend beyond Yang. The club's current injury list, detailed on our injuries page, includes several high-profile names. Record £11 million signing Kasper Hogh is recovering from a thigh issue, though a return is thought to be close. Fellow defender Kieran Tierney is sidelined with a similar knock.
Full-back Alistair Johnston is expected back in mid-October. Perhaps most notably, Portuguese winger Jota could see his comeback fast-tracked for a potential return early next month. His creativity has been missed. One fan reacted to the Yang news online by asking, "Will they take him for free?"
How has Sebastian Tounekti performed?
With attackers missing, attention turns to those available. Sebastian Tounekti, the 24-year-old signed from Hammarby IF for £5 million, has shown flashes. He has six goals and four assists since his arrival, but consistency has been elusive. His ability will be tested during this period.
O'Neill's predicted lineup for the immediate future includes Sinisalo in goal, a back line of Donovan, Carter-Vickers, Trusty, and Scales. The midfield could feature McGregor, Baur, and Nygren, with a front three of Hassan, Duran, and Tounekti. This group must maintain the team's perfect domestic record of six wins from six games.
What is Celtic's current league position?
Despite the absences, Celtic's form has been formidable. They sit first in the Premiership with 15 points from five games, boasting a perfect record of five wins. Their goal difference stands at an impressive +10, having scored 13 and conceded just three. They currently hold a three-point lead over second-place Heart of Midlothian.
The challenge now is to sustain that momentum with a depleted squad. The next test comes away to Aberdeen, who are 10th in the table, on December 19th. You can view the full upcoming schedule on our fixtures page. Navigating this period successfully will be key to their title defence, with the standings showing a tight race at the top.
