Brigit Adongo
When Celtic faced Motherwell in the Scottish premier league last Saturday, one absence from the former champions stood out; James McCarthy. Fans didn’t know why the Irish midfielder was left out, and the answer wasn’t what anyone would have hoped for; another injury.
Ange Postecoglou revealed that McCarthy was suffering from a “small muscle injury” and said it wasn’t that serious, but one would say it still remains to be seen given the midfielder’s history of back to back injuries.
The 30-year old Irish has had quite an unsatisfying start at Celtic, having no single goal or assist in the three league games he has played for his new club, none of which he was in the field for all 90 minutes.
Commenting on his poor performance, coach Ange said it is understandable because McCarthy arrived at Celtic late and didn’t have preseason practice like other players, therefore catching up in a league that’s so intense has been a problem.
“It is difficult for him because he didn’t have a proper pre-season…that means they have to catch up…It’s only reasonable,” Ange stated. We are in mid-October however, and perhaps everyone should have gotten their act together by now if they want to be any help for their team, especially a struggling one like Celtic.
Despite James’ injury count, Ange is hopeful that the former Everton man will be back soon, because his muscle problem is supposedly “insignificant.” The coach revealed that McCarthy not training with the team on Monday was a cautious move to not cause any more complications.
