Kasper Schmeichel was spotted at Lennoxtown on Friday, just days after he announced via CBS' Champions League coverage that his career may be over.
It was terrible news for everyone to hear. The goalkeeper hasn't been at his best this season, often letting in shots he probably could have dealt with, but it's never nice for a player's career to end in such an awful way.
Schmeichel revealed that he needs two surgeries to fix his shoulder, which he injured on international duty last year. He is set to be out for 10 to 12 months, with his Celtic contract expiring in the summer.
Hoops fans were understandably disappointed as the club has yet to address the injury. Supporters had to find out via CBS, and we can all understand why that is upsetting to some.
Today though, spirits seem to be high among the squad, and Schmeichel was out on the pitch in full training gear. Although he won't be returning to football anytime soon, it's good to have such an experienced player around the team, especially for the other goalkeepers like starter Viljami Sinisalo and bench option Ross Doohan.
Good to have Schmeichel around
Schmeichel's presence could be a massive asset to the Hoops in this title race. He'll be disappointed that he can't play a bigger part, but he'll have to deal with things as they come.
A lot of players would simply be totally out of action if they suffered an injury this bad. It says a lot about the goalkeeper that he is still willing to get involved in training with Martin O'Neill and the team, keeping himself around, even while he is sidelined.
There is no doubt that his focus will fully be on recovery though. Although he played his last game in a Celtic shirt, he may opt to go through rehab and come back to football one day. He admitted that he will be in his 40s at that point, so he may choose to hang up the boots instead, but there are still plenty of opportunities for the experienced goalkeeper, playing or otherwise.
Schmeichel wasn't the only name returning to Lennoxtown as Alistair Johnston was also spotted on the pitch, training with the squad. Fan favourite Julian Araujo could be sidelined for some time, but other players such as Arne Engels are also close to their return.
The Celts will not be starved for options going into the final stages of the season.