3 things we learned from Celtic vs Hearts: Kyogo, Jota and more

Jota injury could be a huge blow to Celtic’s title hopes

Jota has been one of Celtic’s standout performers this season without a shadow of a doubt. The Portuguese superstar has been an absolute revelation ever since arriving from Benfica and he was on an incredible run of form.

Thus, him pulling up was a huge injury blow for Celtic to say the least as he limped off the pitch. It does very much look like a hamstring problem for Jota.

It goes without saying that this could be the biggest takeaway from this game, despite Celtic getting the win. Jota has been absolutely vital to this team and Mikey Johnston has not been able to make the same impact.

If Jota ends up missing action for any significant length of time, it will be interesting to see how Celtic cope. Ange Postecoglou could move James Forrest to the left and start Liel Abada on the right. Or he could simply go for a like-for-like replacement in Johnston.

We can only wish Jota a speedy recovery though and hope to see him back in action as soon as possible.

Celtic’s defence could be in trouble

At the start of the match, there was a huge surprise as Carl Starfelt returned to the line up while Cameron Carter-Vickers was not even in the squad.

And now, the Hoops’ defence has been dealt a double injury blow. Anthony Ralston set up Kyogo’s goal but then had to go off injured in the first half itself. And then, Stephen Welsh was forced off the pitch in the second half.

It is safe to say that this is far from ideal with Celtic not having a lot of options in their defence in the first place. We can only wait and see how things unfold from here on but it is not looking good for Postecoglou’s side at the moment.