Luis Palma and Alistair Johnston are questionable for Celtic’s next match against Motherwell, according to manager Brendan Rodgers. This is because of their national team commitments and the accompanying travel requirements.
Luis Palma, a Honduran player, participated in the first leg of the CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinal matchup with Mexico. Despite taking a knock, he was able to play 98 minutes in the second leg, which unfortunately resulted in Honduras losing on penalties shootout. Celtic is worried because Palma’s scheduled return from South America occurs just one day before the Motherwell match, which means there won’t be much time for recuperation.
In a similar vein, Alistair Johnston represented Canada internationally and participated in matches against Jamaica. He will have a short window of time to rest and get ready for the Motherwell game because, like Palma, he is anticipated to return to the club on Friday.
Speaking prior to Wednesday’s game, the manager stated:
Indeed, the other guys have returned well, but Luis Palma and Ali Johnston won’t be back until Friday because we are still waiting on them.
“The guys who have represented Scotland and their country in competition are fine, and the others, yeah, fine.” Thus, there are currently no injuries to report. Just evaluate, simply evaluate, and see how they are.
Unless Rodgers makes a shape change, considers starting Mikey Johnston for the first time this season, or even considers playing Kyogo out wide, Anthony Ralston will probably start at the back. Yang and Forrest could be the wingers.
