Celtic midfielder Paulo Bernardo reckons the “door is still open” for him to achieve his dream of playing for Benfica.
Greg Taylor has been ruled out of Celtic’s crucial Champions League tie against Atalanta, in a blow to the Hoops’ preparations for the European clash. The left-back, who has been out injured since before the international break, was a doubt for the trip to Italy, and Brendan Rodgers confirmed today that Taylor will not be fit in time for the third matchday of the group stage.
The Celtic manager provided an update on Taylor’s recovery, saying: “Greg Taylor’s doing really well, but he probably won’t come back into the squad training until after the Atalanta game.” This leaves Celtic without their first-choice left-back for one of the most important matches in their European campaign.
With Taylor unavailable, Barcelona loanee Alex Valle is set to step in again for both this Saturday’s league clash against Aberdeen and the midweek showdown in Italy. Valle has been getting more game time in Taylor’s absence and now has a chance to cement his place with strong performances in these high-stakes fixtures. The young Spaniard has shown glimpses of his quality, but the pressure will be on as he fills the void in one of the toughest away ties Celtic will face this season.
While Taylor’s absence will be felt, Rodgers remains positive about his squad’s overall fitness and readiness. “Apart from that, we’re in a good place,” the manager said, hinting that the rest of his side should be fit and firing for the double-header.
Speaking about the challenge Aberdeen will bring on Saturday, Rodgers said: “We’re really excited by the game. It’s a great game to come back to and get back into it quickly. First versus second is always a great game, especially early in the season.”
“I’ve been impressed with Jimmy’s team. They have real clarity in how they play, with and without the ball. Winning seven straight games in your league is a real achievement.”
The game starts at 3 pm and is not on television in the UK or Ireland. Subscribers to Celtic TV outwith those two countries will be able to watch the action.
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