Injury updates for Alistair Johnston and Kelechi Iheanacho following Celtic’s 2-1 victory over Sturm Graz in the Europa League

The Celtic victory against Sturm Graz worries Brendan Rodgers. Affected by New Injury Setbacks

After Celtic defeated Sturm Graz 2-1, Brendan Rodgers addressed the media, providing a conflicted response to what should have been a night of European joy marred by fresh injury setbacks.

Although Alistair Johnston and Kelechi Iheanacho suffered injuries in the first half, Celtic rallied from a goal behind to win their first Europa League game of the season. Before the half, both players were sent off, which threw off the team’s rhythm and compelled Rodgers to make quick tactical adjustments.

Iheanacho lasted a few more minutes before limping away, clutching his leg, while Johnston seemed to pull up as he ran into position. Before being led down the tunnel for additional evaluation, the couple was treated on the bench.

Ahead of Sunday’s pivotal Premiership matchup with Hearts, Rodgers acknowledged in his post-match remarks that the atmosphere in the dressing room was more cautious than joyous, and that both injuries might have major repercussions. The possible loss of two important starters puts even more pressure on the manager’s selection choices for Celtic, whose roster has already been overworked in recent weeks.

In an interview with TNT Sports, Rodgers stated:

“The first two appear to be hamstrings, which is not good. Alright, but that’s football. It occurs.

Rodgers had good reason to be concerned. Iheanacho’s movement and ability to link up were anticipated to be crucial to Celtic’s European campaign, while Johnston’s offensive drive and defensive dependability have been essential to their play down the right side. It would be a huge blow at a crucial juncture in the season to lose both players at once.

The timing of the injury couldn’t be worse, as the journey to Tynecastle is quickly coming. If neither player recovers in time, Rodgers may now have to go to players like Anthony Ralston, Colby Donovan, or Johnny Kenny to replace the void.

Even while Rodgers maintained his composure, it is becoming more and more clear how much pressure his team is under. As Celtic navigate a packed match schedule in the upcoming weeks, how they handle these setbacks may prove to be crucial.

The Celtic manager may now enjoy the hard-fought victory over Sturm Graz, but his first priorities will be in the treatment room, where he will get information on Johnston and Iheanacho in order to make plans for the journey to Edinburgh.