Concern for Celtic as Neil Lennon confirms Hatem Abd Elhamed is an injury doubt for Europa League clash

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Celtic could be without Hatem Abd Elhamed for their Europa League qualifying match against AIK on Thursday evening. Celtic host AIK in the first leg of the qualifying play-offs but there are concerns about the defence.

Lennon has confirmed in his pre-match press conference that Elhamed could miss the game. He added that Tom Rogic is stepping up his recovery but the Australian midfielder will not play.

If Celtic are without Elhamed, then there are problems at the back. Lennon has been trying to sign some new defenders to bulk up his options. Elhamed’s absence will be notable at right-back.

The Israel international arrived in the summer to fill the void left by Mikael Lustig. But Jeremy Toljan also departed – after his loan expired – and this leaves Celtic without a recognised right-back if Elhamed is ruled out. Kristoffer Ajer has played there to cover for Elhamed but his presence at centre-back is needed.

TBR’s view

Lennon needs to accelerate his search for a new right-back. Elhamed has impressed when on the field but has already been ruled out with two different injuries. This cannot be a recurring theme throughout the season, otherwise Celtic’s success will be limited.

This is an issue that should have been sorted a long time ago. It is unacceptable to be ill-prepared for such an important game. If the Bhoys drop out of the Europa League, Lennon could pay for it with his job.