Celtic starlet Jonathan Afolabi ‘nearly back fit’ as Vakoun Issouf Bayo suffers injury

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There could be a door opening for Jonathan Afolabi at Celtic.

Afolabi has confirmed that he is “nearly back fit” as a number of other Celtic strikers struggle with injury problems. Neil Lennon will be considering all his options and Afolabi could get his chance.

Afolabi: Positive injury update

On his personal Instagram account, Afolabi posted a story captioned: “Buzzing to be nearly back fit”. The Republic of Ireland U21 striker picked up an injury on international duty.

The 19-year-old has not yet made his senior Celtic debut since his summer move from Southampton. But if he reaches full fitness before the other Bhoys strikers, he could become Odsonne Edouard’s back-up.

Celtic striker injury concerns

Edouard leads the line for Celtic but Lennon’s options have been restricted by injuries. Vakoun Issouf Bayo is the latest player to join the injury list. He picked up a knock in training and will have a scan, Neil Lennon confirmed (via @CelticFC).

Bayo will join Leigh Griffiths on the sidelines. Mikey Johnston – who can be a makeshift striker – is also out. Afolabi’s return to fitness would be a welcome boost for Lennon.

Door open for Afolabi?

Celtic have a crisis in the striker department and there is a lot of pressure on Edouard. With such a heavy schedule, Lennon will want to rotate Edouard with another striker to keep him fit and fresh.

This could be a fast-track route for the young Irish striker. If he succeeds, he could follow Jeremie Frimpong in becoming a regular for Celtic.