CELTIC could be without Patrick Roberts for the Scottish Cup Final – if they beat Rangers in next month’s last-four showdown.
The Hoops and the English FA appear to be on course for a club v country confrontation.
If Brendan Rodgers’ side reach the Hampden grand finale in May to bring down the curtain on an enthralling campaign, they could have a problem concerning the on-loan Manchester City winger.
Roberts is a key player for England Under-20s and they have reached the Under-20s World Cup Finals in South Korea.
That tournament is due to start on May 20 and the Hampden Cup Final is seven days later.
The Scottish champions and the FA would have to decide what takes preference – an international tournament or the Cup Final.
Roberts netted for the English youngsters earlier this season and manager Paul Simpson will be keen to have him to be involved in Asia.
The 20-year-old has made 34 appearances for the Parkhead outfit this season and was a key player in the turnaround of their fortunes in the quarter-final against St Mirren when he came on for Gary Mackay-Steven at half-time.
Celtic were struggling 1-0 down, but the introduction of the sharp and tricky touchline operator helped the Hoops coast to a 4-1 win.
The international tournament is being held early because South Korea don’t want the event to clash with their rainy season, which is in late June.
