Alistair Johnston and Kelechi Iheanacho Injury Update: Will the Celtic Duo Play Against Hearts?

Celtic’s 2-1 Europa League win over Sturm Graz came at a price on Thursday night, as both Alistair Johnston and Kelechi Iheanacho suffered injuries that could sideline them for the club’s upcoming Scottish Premiership clash with Hearts. Manager Brendan Rodgers expressed concern after both players were forced off in the first half at Celtic Park.

Johnston appeared to pull up while sprinting, while Iheanacho exited moments later clutching his leg. The pair’s early departures disrupted Celtic’s rhythm but did not stop them from securing a vital victory thanks to goals from Liam Scales and Benjamin Nygren. Rodgers, however, admitted post-match that the initial signs “didn’t look great.”

Brendan Rodgers Confirms Injury Concerns for Johnston and Iheanacho

Speaking to TNT Sports, Rodgers said the pair would undergo medical assessments to determine the full extent of their injuries, suggesting both may have suffered hamstring issues. “The first two doesn’t look great,” he noted, hinting that both players are doubts for Sunday’s trip to Tynecastle.

Johnston has been a key defensive figure this season, offering reliability and attacking intent down the right flank. Iheanacho, meanwhile, has been instrumental in Celtic’s attack, linking play and providing an aerial threat since his arrival. Losing both players simultaneously would be a serious blow as Celtic balance domestic and European commitments.

The Celtic boss was visibly frustrated, noting the challenges of managing injuries amid a demanding schedule. The team’s squad depth has already been stretched, and further absences could force tactical adjustments heading into a crucial run of fixtures.

Who Could Replace Them for the Hearts Match?

With Johnston and Iheanacho potentially sidelined, Rodgers may turn to Anthony Ralston to cover at right-back, while Colby Donovan or Johnny Kenny could step in for the Nigerian forward. Both have featured in recent matches and will be expected to adapt quickly to fill the void if required.

Celtic’s upcoming fixture against Hearts is vital as they aim to maintain momentum in the title race. The injuries could test the squad’s resilience and tactical flexibility, especially given recent fixture congestion across competitions.

Celtic’s Focus Shifts to Recovery and Rotation

Rodgers emphasized the need for calm and preparation despite the setback, acknowledging that such challenges are part of modern football. His immediate focus now lies in recovery protocols and managing player workload to prevent further injuries.

As Celtic await updates from the medical team, the next 48 hours will be critical in determining whether Johnston and Iheanacho can feature at Tynecastle or if both will be rested to avoid aggravating their injuries.

For now, Celtic fans can celebrate a hard-earned European win, but the fitness of Alistair Johnston and Kelechi Iheanacho remains a major talking point ahead of their next domestic test.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened to Alistair Johnston and Kelechi Iheanacho?

Both players were forced off during the first half of Celtic’s Europa League clash with Sturm Graz due to apparent hamstring issues.

Q2: Will Johnston and Iheanacho play against Hearts?

Brendan Rodgers said both will be assessed, but early indications suggest they may miss the upcoming match at Tynecastle.

Q3: Who could replace them in the starting lineup?

Anthony Ralston could start at right-back, while Colby Donovan or Johnny Kenny may fill in for Iheanacho in attack.

Q4: How did Celtic perform against Sturm Graz?

Celtic came from behind to win 2-1, with goals from Liam Scales and Benjamin Nygren securing their first Europa League victory of the season.

Q5: What did Brendan Rodgers say about the injuries?

Rodgers admitted the injuries “didn’t look great,” and both players are awaiting further assessment.