Julian Araujo isn’t likely to play again for Celtic this season after suffering a fresh injury, but Alistair Johnston is nearing a return, Martin O’Neill has said.
The Hoops square off with the Buddies in the league on Saturday for the first of a double header, with the Scottish Cup semi-final set for next Sunday at Hampden.
O’Neill confirmed defender Araujo suffered a fresh injury while under supervision at parent club Bournemouth and isn’t likely to play again for the Hoops this season.
He said: “It’s a real blow, I’ve only just found that out today.
“I don’t think we will see him for the rest of the season if it is the same injury he has redone.”
Meanwhile, sidelined stars Callum Osmand, Arne Engels and defender Johnston were all pictured in training at Lennoxtown.
Osmand was injured during a Europa League clash in November, while Johnston hasn’t featured for the champions since October.
O’Neill said the Canadian fullback, with continued training, has a chance of featuring in the cup semi-final against St Mirren.
However, Colby Donovan has a hamstring problem and is out.
He said: “It hopefully won’t be too long [Donovan]. He’ll miss next week as well, but he’s doing well.
“Johnston trained with the team today, which was very encouraging. I don’t think he felt any ill effects, but he did join in before and then reinjured himself with the national team.
“We need him as soon as possible…if he comes through today and with a good week’s training next week, who knows.”
Following the news of the Green Brigade’s return to Celtic Park after their suspension was lifted, O’Neill says it will give the team a boost.
He said: “It will be great if that is the case. The safety regulations have been sorted, and that will give us a boost.
“I would like to park things now and see what the summer brings.”
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