Celtic’s injury struggles have taken another major turn, with Martin O’Neill confirming that two of the club’s most important players will not feature again this season.
Cameron Carter Vickers and Jota have both been missing for large parts of the campaign, and their absence has left a noticeable gap in the team at a time when consistency has been hard to find.
Speaking on the situation, O’Neill made it clear there will be no late comeback for either player before the season wraps up.
“You mentioned Jota and Carter-Vickers.
“They will not be available to us until next season.”
It is a significant blow for Celtic, especially given how influential both players have been in recent years. Their presence at both ends of the pitch has been missed, and it has shown in key moments throughout the season.
There was, however, a more positive update when attention turned to Callum Osmand. The young striker has been sidelined since November after picking up a hamstring injury just as he was starting to build momentum.
O’Neill offered a glimpse of optimism regarding his recovery.
“Callum is doing really well, he’s anxious to go and I think he’s been working exceptionally well. So, hopefully, that won’t be too far.”
That update will give fans something to hold on to, with Osmand potentially returning before the end of the campaign if his progress continues as planned.
Behind the scenes, the international break has given Celtic a chance to regroup. While several players have been away representing their countries, those remaining at Lennoxtown have been working closely with O’Neill to prepare for the final stretch of the season.
Attention now shifts to Sunday’s trip to face Dundee, a fixture that already carries added pressure. The last meeting between the sides ended in a disappointing 2 0 defeat for Celtic at Dens Park, something the team will be desperate to put right.
O’Neill knows exactly what kind of challenge to expect.
“I thought they played exceptionally well against us in the cup game.
“We got the late equaliser and then went on to win in extra-time.
“They played very well.”
He continued by highlighting Dundee’s resilience and ability to stay in games.
“A lot of subsequent games they’ve been well in the picture.
“They fought back against Dundee United in their derby at 2-0 behind and they’re a strong outfit.
“Whatever way they approach the game you can’t do anything about that.”
For O’Neill, the focus remains firmly on his own side and how they respond.
“It’s how we approach it from my viewpoint, and we have to be as strong as them,” he added.
With key players ruled out and pressure building, Celtic are entering a crucial phase of the season. The potential return of Osmand offers a small boost, but the task ahead remains clear. They must find a way to respond on the pitch, starting with a difficult test against Dundee.