Celtic defender Filip Benkovic may have suffered a shattering injury blow which could keep him on the sidelines for a ‘significant’ period of time, according to Sky Sports reporter Mark Benstead.
The broadcast correspondent reported live from Celtic Park ahead of the Hoops’ clash against St Johnstone on Wednesday night that the 21-year-old, who was missing entirely from the match day squad, is suggested to have been seriously injured during the week.
He told Sky Sports News live from Celtic Park (30/01, 19:08): “The suggestion is he may have picked up a nasty injury this week that could see him spend a significant spell on the sidelines.”
Benkovic has been a mainstay for Brendan Rodgers with 26 appearances this season.
Opinion
The last thing the Bhoys needed was an injury blow at the heart of the defence but that is exactly what has happened and it is worst case scenario at Parkhead now. Benkovic has been regularly played by his manager and for good reason, the Leicester City loanee impressing week in, week out with his performances in Glasgow. To lose him is a serious issue that might well have to be addressed in the shape of a deadline day signing by the Hoops, especially if his setback is as serious as suggested. Of course there will still be fingers crossed that he can make a swift recovery from whatever issue he is indeed suffering from but it seems as though the Parkhead faithful will be waiting a while before seeing him back in action any time soon. A heavy blow for those in the green and white half in Glasgow – but just how much of an impact will it have on the Premiership title race? Only time will tell.