Celtic might not have been anywhere near their best on the pitch this season, but the injuries have certainly had a huge part to play in that.
The likes of James Forrest and Christopher Jullien have spent the majority of the season on the sidelines with long-term injuries. And the Hoops have clearly felt the absence of both of them.
There are only three games left in the season and not much to play for to be honest. There is no way left for the club to win a trophy while they are guaranteed to finish in second spot. There is the opportunity to end the Rangers’ undefeated run in the Premiership though, when they meet in the final Glasgow Derby of the season at Ibrox. And as a result, they will not be wanting any more injuries going into that game.
Thus, Kristoffer Ajer’s absence in the squad against Aberdeen might have raised quite a few fears. But John Kennedy has confirmed that he is ok and he just did not want to risk him on the night due to a shoulder injury. While speaking with BBC Sportsound and as reported by Glasgow Live, the interim manager said:
"“He’s ok. He hurt his shoulder during the game and managed to get through it.“For a couple of days, he was a little tender so no need to risk him tonight.“He’s played loads of games this season as well so it gives us a chance to bring Bitton into the team.”"
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Ajer is expected to leave Celtic in the summer
Come the end of the season, Ajer will have a year left on his contract and could very well be on his way out of Parkhead in the summer.
That does not change the fact that he has been one of the most consistent players in the team this season, which is impressive when you consider how shaky the Hoops have been at the back throughout the course of this campaign.
Thus, his presence in the team would certainly be a boost against the Rangers and it is good to see that the Norwegian has not picked up any long-term issue.
Now, the focus should be firmly on getting a win over the Rangers because to be honest, there is nothing else left to play for this season.