Celtic’s pre-season preparations were dealt an early blow after Stephen Welsh was forced off with a shoulder injury during tonight’s 2-1 win over Cork City.

The centre-back had to be substituted shortly after Celtic conceded an equaliser.

Welsh was in clear discomfort as physios rushed onto the pitch. The defender appeared to suffer a dislocated shoulder, a recurring problem that has already interrupted his career on multiple occasions.

Brendan Rodgers confirmed after the match that it’s the fourth time Welsh has had the issue, and hinted that surgery might now be on the cards. The 25-year-old has battled injuries in recent seasons, and another spell on the sidelines could complicate his hopes of regular minutes this term.

It’s a frustrating development for a player who had been looking to build momentum this summer. With Celtic still light in central defence, the setback comes at an unwelcome time for both the squad and Rodgers.

He said: (Celtic FC YouTube), “I think by the time the physios got on, it had popped back in, but the pain was too sore, so we took him off.

“It’s the fourth time that it’s popped out. I think when it keeps coming out like that, there’s the possibility of an operation. He has to have a wee think about that.”

Celtic will now assess the injury in the coming days, with medical staff expected to advise on the next steps. Should surgery be required, Welsh would likely face a lengthy recovery period heading into the new season.

Rodgers had included Welsh as part of his travelling group to Ireland, and the defender had been looking to make his case for more game time. His absence would leave Celtic relying more heavily on other options like Cameron Carter-Vickers and Dane Murray during the early fixtures.

With a busy campaign ahead, including Champions League qualifiers and domestic challenges, the timing of the injury could not be worse. The club will be hopeful of a clear diagnosis soon to allow Welsh to plot the best path forward.