It’s a sense of Déjà vu for Celtic’s first-choice goalkeeper, Kasper Schmeichel.
Around this period last season, Schmeichel suffered a shoulder injury while representing Denmark against Portugal, which kept the Celtic shot-stopper out for some time.
Now, following Celtic’s Scottish Cup triumph over Dundee on Saturday night, it appears the previous injury has resurfaced.
Viljami Sinisalo took his place in goal against Dundee, with the Hoops requiring extra time to secure their progression into the next round, as Martin O’Neill addressed Schmeichel’s condition.
Why Kasper Schmeichel didn’t feature for Celtic against Dundee
As stated by O’Neill, Celtic’s first-choice goalkeeper is expected to ‘get an injection’, which suggests he could be available for the Premiership clash with Livingston on Wednesday evening.
Coincidentally, the previous meeting between Celtic and Livi also saw Schmeichel missing, with Sinisalo starting in that six-goal encounter under former manager, Wilfried Nancy.
It appears Schmeichel sat out the Dundee fixture to allow his shoulder time to recover, as O’Neill told Premier Sports (07/02/26).
“Kasper just needs a break, really,” said O’Neill. “I think he has a bit of a shoulder problem.
“But I think it’s a chance to clear up. I think he will get an injection. So, just this particular weekend, and it’s an opportunity for Sinisalo to do well.”
Is Viljami Sinisalo prepared to become Celtic’s first-choice goalkeeper?
Regardless of how Celtic finish this season, whether they secure the title or not, a major overhaul seems necessary in the summer, as this campaign has been highly disappointing.
One department requiring attention is the goalkeeping unit. Not long ago, Celtic supporters expressed frustration with Schmeichel, as his displays have been inconsistent this season.
However, is Sinisalo capable of claiming the starting role? Whenever he has been given opportunities, he has appeared reliable.
Games for Celtic: 13
Goals conceded: 8
Clean sheets: 6