Fragile limbs

The overwhelming request from an international break is that our players return injury-free.  Nir Bitton made an appearance as a second half substitute against Wales last night but left the field 18 minutes later, with a foot injury.

Nir is in the best form of his life and has carved himself out a deep-lying creative role in the Celtic team.  Central midfield roles don’t come up for grabs too often.  Two of our strongest players, Scott Brown and Stefan Johansen, compete for a small number of central midfield jerseys, although they are different types of players, so it’s important our Nir doesn’t spend too long on the side-lines.

Fraser Forster’s terrible knee injury last weekend was sickening.  The big guy is one of the most professional players in the game and is absolutely dedicated to his development.  His form in the FA Premier League this season has been sensational, recording more shutouts than any other keeper.

It’s a blow to Southampton too, who gave Celtic £10m for Fraser’s services seven months ago.