Celtic boss drops Cameron Carter-Vickers fitness hint

One of the major talking points ahead of Celtic’s Premiership opener against Ross County this weekend is the fitness status of Cameron Carter-Vickers. The American made a somewhat unexpected return to the pitch, as Brendan Rodgers started him in the final pre-season friendly against Athletic Bilbao.

Carter-Vickers might not have played a game in months, having undergone surgery towards the end of last season. But he showed his class against Athletic Bilbao in the first half itself.

There were doubts though, about whether he would start the game against Ross County this weekend. Bringing him slowly back into the fold with a few substitute appearances might be the safer route.

But as reported by The Scotsman, Rodgers feels that there is no need to hold the 24-year-old back. The Celtic manager said:

"“He’d been out on the pitch for four to five weeks, [though] not always with us.“He’s still a wee bit behind but he can get his fitness through games, as well. He’s a naturally fit boy. He’s been very impressive since coming in.”"

Celtic boss drops Carter-Vickers fitness hint

Thus, it looks like it is very possible that Carter-Vickers could end up starting this weekend against Ross County. That would be great news for Celtic without doubt.

Carter-Vickers is most probably the best defender at the club right now. Many even feel that he is the best that the Hoops have had in their ranks since a certain Virgil van Dijk. Wonder how his career went.

Celtic are a much better team with Carter-Vickers than without him. At the same time though, it is important to make sure that there is absolutely no risk in starting the American international at this point in time. Considering the experience that Rodgers has, one would expect him to make the right call.

Other than Carter-Vickers, Celtic have another key absentee at the back right now in the form of Alistair Johnston. It remains to be seen when the Canadian international ends up returning to action. He has been excellent since joining in January of this year.