AliousCallum McGregor Set for Celtic Return After Injury Absence
Celtic captain Callum McGregor is on course to make his comeback from injury following the international break, offering a major boost to Brendan Rodgers’ squad.
McGregor’s Absence Felt in Old Firm Defeat
The 31-year-old midfielder was sidelined with a calf issue in the buildup to last weekend’s intense Old Firm derby against Rangers. His absence proved costly, as Celtic—despite staging a comeback from 2-0 down—ultimately fell to a dramatic 3-2 defeat at Parkhead.
McGregor was not the only key player missing from the clash, with defensive duo Liam Scales and Auston Trusty also ruled out due to injuries. Their unavailability saw Maik Nawrocki partner Cameron Carter-Vickers at the heart of Celtic’s defense. Although the Polish defender delivered a solid performance, he couldn’t prevent Rangers from claiming victory.
McGregor Expected to Return Against Hearts
According to *Sun Sport*, the influential Celtic skipper will be fit for selection when the Hoops resume their domestic campaign against Hearts at Celtic Park on Saturday, March 30.
McGregor, who has netted nine goals across all competitions this season, stepped away from international football following Scotland’s Euro 2024 campaign, retiring with 63 caps to his name. His return to action will be a significant boost for Celtic as they push forward in the Premiership.
Injury Concerns Remain for Celtic
While McGregor is on track to feature against Hearts, Celtic fans will be eager to see whether Scales and Trusty can recover in time for the league restart. The defensive duo’s return would provide much-needed stability at the back.
However, the clash with Hearts **will come too soon** for long-term absentees **James Forrest and Paulo Bernardo**. Forrest has not played since December’s victory over Hibernian, while Bernardo has been out since picking up an injury in February’s Scottish Cup win against Raith Rovers. Neither player has resumed first-team training.
With a crucial run of fixtures ahead, Celtic supporters will be hoping their squad returns to full strength as they aim to bounce back from their derby disappointment and keep their Premiership ambitions on track.
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