Supporters were shocked when Julian Araujo was left out of the matchday squad to face Motherwell on Saturday, and Martin O'Neill has revealed why the defender had to miss the game.
Speaking to BBC Sport, he said:
"He’s picked up an injury during the course of the week.
Well, he felt very, very tight after Sunday’s game as well too, with a little bit of time he’s just felt a little bit in the thigh.
And we thought well there’s no point in risking it. And just leave him for today."
O'Neill's comments should squash any concerns that fans have. It seems as though this is purely a precautionary move rather than an indication that the Mexican will be out for any extended period of time.
Celtic can't lose Araujo
Since joining Celtic in the winter transfer window on loan, Araujo has been incredible for the Hoops. He has stepped in for the injured Alistair Johnston, who is expected to return this month, and has offered exactly what we need at the perfect time.
He has developed a love for the club that is very obvious when he plays the likes of city rivals Rangers. His antics at Ibrox, alongside his good performances, have made fans fall in love with him, and everyone is now hoping that he will opt for a permanent move in the summer. Apparently, he hasn't ruled it out.
There was bad news for Celtic on Friday though, when it was revealed that Mexican side Cruz Azul are interested in signing Araujo ahead of next season. If the Celts do try to bring him to the club for longer, they will face competition, so they can't afford to wait.
Whatever happens, we have Araujo for a while longer, and he will be invaluable in this title race. We are only five points away from Hearts, sitting in second place, and there is every chance that Celtic will lift the Scottish Premiership title come the end of the campaign.
Thankfully, Araujo hasn't joined the injury list that includes key players like Cameron Carter-Vickers, Arne Engels, and most recently, Callum McGregor. The captain is set to be out until at least the Dundee United game with a calf injury, but thankfully, players like Reo Hatate have found their form at the perfect time and can slot in for the skipper.
Araujo will be a big loss against Motherwell, but hopefully, the Celts will do just fine without him, with Colby Donovan stepping up to the plate.