Celtic legend Frank McAvennie has apologised for comments he made about defender Auston Trusty's compassionate leave, which supporters labelled insensitive. The former striker faced a backlash after questioning the length of Trusty's absence following his father's death during a podcast appearance.

McAvennie made the remarks on his 'Let Me Be Frank' podcast, aired on November 3. He suggested the defender's time away was being prolonged by 'the woke brigade' and called the situation 'nonsense'. The comments sparked immediate criticism from Celtic fans online, who accused the 66-year-old of lacking compassion.

Frank McAvennie said: "I can understand why people feel my comments were insensitive, and looking back, I should have chosen my words more carefully."

He posted the apology on social media, adding that the club needs the 'big man' back in the side. Some supporters responded that he was only apologising because he had been 'caught' and was receiving 'pelters'.

Trusty's absence timeline

Auston Trusty, the 28-year-old defender, has been absent since Celtic's 4-1 Europa League defeat to Benfica on October 15. He returned to the United States to attend the funeral of his father, Walt Trusty, while the team lost 2-0 away to Falkirk on November 1. Manager Martin O'Neill has stated that Trusty is 'celebrating the life of his dad' and that there is no set timetable for his return to the squad.

In Trusty's absence, Celtic have played five matches across all competitions. Those fixtures included a 1-2 home loss to Celta Vigo, a 2-1 win at Hibernian, a 2-2 draw with Dundee United, and the recent defeat at Falkirk. The team's form in that spell reads two wins, one draw, and two losses.

Celtic's current position

Despite the off-field controversy and a patchy run of results, Celtic remain top of the Premiership. They hold 28 points from 12 games, which puts them four points clear of Rangers. Their next challenge is a home league match against Kilmarnock on November 8, with the visitors currently sitting 11th in the standings.

The squad then faces a quick turnaround, hosting Besiktas in the Europa League the following night at Parkhead. The focus for Martin O'Neill's side will be on regrouping after the Falkirk loss and maintaining their league lead during a demanding period, all while supporting their absent teammate.

Read the full report at Daily Record Football