Celtic suffer double injury blow ahead of Scottish Cup

Celtic will soon be returning to action in a few weeks, but a few key players have had injury setbacks during their time in Dubai.

We learned yesterday that Celtic superstar Hatem Abd Elhamed suffered another injury setback that is apparently different that the current groin issue. His timetable for return has been pushed back a few weeks, and now other players will have to once again cover for him when the Hoops return to action.

Now, there are reports that Mikey Johnston will not be fit to return to play when the Hoops take on Partick Thistle on January 18th. Furthermore, Tom Rogic has not yet returned to training and is in doubt for the match as well.

With Hatem Abd Elhamed, and Mikey Johnston out with injury, and Tom Rogic doubtful, the pressure will be on Neil Lennon to figure out how to best compete. Ryan Christie is also out due to suspension, which makes the Tom Rogic situation even more dire.

According to the Scottish Sun, it could be a while until Mikey Johnston makes his return:

"“Tom Rogic is also near a return to training but Mikey Johnston is still a fortnight away with a thigh strain.”"

Help could be on the horizon for a severely injured Celtic squad, however, no significant signings to the first team have been made yet. Help at midfield would certainly help assuage fears, and an additional striker to provide competition to Odsonne Edouard and Vakoun Issouf Bayo would be a significant add.

Celtic has been linked with numerous strikers, midfielders, and even a few defenders during this winter transfer window. With the oft-injured Hatem Abd Elhamed still on the mend, and a banged up midfield, these signings cannot arrive soon enough. Until then, the Hoops depth will be tested, and youngsters such as Jeremie Frimpong will continue to have chances to shine.