BRENDAN RODGERS has admitted he does not know how long crocked keeper Kasper Schmeichel will be out with a shoulder problem.
The 38-year-old Danish legend sustained the injury during his country’s 5-2 UEFA Nations League loss to Portugal in Lisbon at the weekend.
Schmeichel apparently has his left arm in a sling as he returned to Scotland and won’t feature in the squad against Hearts at Parkhead tomorrow which will open the door for Finnish international Viljami Sinisalo to make his Premiership debut.
Rodgers said: “We don’t know how long he’ll be out. We’re just still waiting to hear on that. He’s obviously got some issues with his shoulder.
PAIN GAME…Kasper Schmeichel writhes in agony after injuring his left shoulder in Lisbon.
“I spoke to him the other day and he’s obviously disappointed that they lost their second game, but, in the main, he’s okay.”
The netminder, who took over from retiring Joe Hart as Hoops No.1 in the summer after leaving Anderlecht as a free agent, copped some flack in the Danish media for his display against Cristiano Ronaldo and Co after travelling to the Portuguese capital with a 1-0 advantage.
Rodgers, speaking to Celtic TV, continued: “I don’t know what was said, but all I know is where Kasper is and the reason I brought him here, knowing him so well, is because he’s still a top-class keeper.
“If you look at his performance level for us over the course of the season, he’s been absolutely brilliant. In big games, he’s made big performances. And, for me, he still has that hunger and that desire to play.
“When criticism comes as a coach, manager, player, sometimes it’s not civil. Sometimes, it’s personal, sadly.
“But I know his character and mentality and I know how determined he’ll be to come back.”
Sinisalo will now step up for his second Celtic appearance following his debut in the 5-0 Scottish Cup win over Raith Rovers at Parkhead last month.
READY FOR ACTION…Viljami Sinisalo will make his Celtic Premiership debut against Hearts.
Rodgers added: “He’s been outstanding in training and I’ve seen him grow and develop.
“But, of course, with every player, it’s when you’re out in the arena of Celtic and beyond that, that’s when you’re measured and when you’re judged.
“I’ve got no qualms with putting him in.”
Skipper Callum McGregor, who missed the games against Hibs and Rangers through a calf strain, is back in the squad while Paulo Bernardo, Auston Trusty and long-term injury victim James Forrest are also in contention to face the Edinburgh outfit.
Liam Scales, however, is still sidelined with the facial knock he took in the 5-2 victory over St Mirren in Paisley at the start of the month.
SINISALO: DRACULA OR DREAM DEPUTY?
