Brendan Rodgers has hinted that Cameron Carter-Vickers could be thrown into action as Celtic get their Scottish Premiership campaign underway against Ross County.
The American internationalist has suffered a frustrating pre-season after undergoing knee surgery back in May, but he is now close to full fitness in a huge boost to the current Scottish Premiership holders.
Carter-Vickers played his first 45 minutes of pre-season action against Athletic Bilbao on Tuesday in James Forrest’s testimonial, but despite his lack of game time in recent weeks, Rodgers admits that the central defender has been impressing behind the scenes.
He explained: “He’s been out on the pitch for four to five weeks, not always with us. He’s still a wee it behind but he can get the fitness through games, as well. He’s a naturally fit boy. He’s been very impressive since coming in.”
Rodgers has been aware of the former Tottenham defender for some time now, but getting to work with him in the flesh has made him realise just how good a player he has at his disposal.
Carter-Vickers was linked with moves away from Parkhead this summer following his stellar role in the treble-winning season, but he now looks set to stay with Celtic another campaign of domestic dominance at the forefront of his mind.
Rodgers continued: “I know his education. I know John McDermott, the technical director at the English FA, very well. John was at Tottenham for 15 years, so I know all the boys there that have come through.
“All the players are well-schooled in the game and on standards. I’ve seen Cameron from afar, seen him play for Celtic a number of times, and was impressed. But to see him close up, he’s a very, very good player.”
Meanwhile, Celtic are braced for bids for Carter-Vickers’ defensive partner Carl Starfelt. The former Rubin Kazan man moved to Glasgow in 2021 and still has two years left on his current deal.
His performances last season under Ange Postecoglou have caught the eye and Celtic chiefs now face a fight to keep him beyond the summer transfer window.