New Celtic signing Gustaf Lagerbielke is fit and available for what could be a challenging debut this weekend, as the Hoops prepare to face Kilmarnock in the Viaplay Cup.
The match will be played on Kilmarnock’s astroturf pitch, a surface that Lagerbielke should be accustomed to from his time playing in Sweden.
The 23-year-old Swedish central defender, who recently joined Celtic from Elfsborg for a reported £3 million fee, has been training with the team at Lennoxtown and is in contention to make his first appearance for the club. His potential debut comes at a crucial time for Celtic, who are facing a defensive crisis due to injuries.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers confirmed Lagerbielke’s eligibility and fitness ahead of the weekend’s match. Speaking in a press conference, Rodgers said: “He’s been playing, so fitness-wise, he’s fine.” [Celtic TV]
The absence of Cameron Carter-Vickers and Stephen Welsh, who are both unavailable for the match due to injuries, has opened the door for Lagerbielke to potentially step into the heart of Celtic’s defence. The Swedish defender’s familiarity with astroturf pitches, common in the Swedish Allsvenskan, may prove to be an advantage as he looks to make an immediate impact in his new surroundings.
As Celtic prepare to defend the Viaplay Cup, all eyes will be on how Rodgers reshapes his defence and whether Lagerbielke will be handed his debut under these pressing circumstances.
The match against Kilmarnock will be a significant test for Celtic’s new signing, should he be called upon.
