Celtic defender Auston Trusty has shed light on his recent absences from the starting XI, revealing that illness kept him sidelined during a critical stretch of the festive schedule.
The £6m summer signing from Sheffield United returned to the starting XI in style, scoring his first goal for the club in Sunday’s 3-0 win over St Mirren.
Trusty had been a noticeable absentee from Brendan Rodgers’ team sheets following his half-time substitution in last month’s Premier Sports Cup Final triumph over Rangers.
At the time, Rodgers said he had subbed the American off for Scales’ build up play and experience
Liam Scales since filled the void alongside Cameron Carter-Vickers, starting four consecutive matches as fans speculated about Trusty’s mysterious omission with some questioning if Rodgers preferred the Irishman over the summer signin.
Speaking to Celtic TV, Trusty clarified the situation:
“I wasn’t injured, I was just sick.
“Whatever bug was flying around here or whatever was happening, I was ill and it took me out for a good couple of weeks and I didn’t feel right.
“It was just battling back from that. You don’t want to feel ill or be sick. But it showed a lot about the team – people can step in and do the job. I knew that once I got back into the right shape, I’d be welcomed back into the team and do my thing.”
Trusty’s return to the lineup against St Mirren was marked by a solid defensive performance and a powerful headed goal from an Arne Engels corner, helping Celtic bounce back from their derby defeat to Rangers.
Rodgers praised Trusty’s performance post-match, suggesting the American’s athleticism and composure were key assets.
Celtic’s defensive depth has been a talking point this season. With Trusty, Scales, and Carter-Vickers all vying for minutes, Rodgers has several strong options at his disposal. Trusty’s illness gave Scales an extended run in the team, but the American’s performance on Sunday may have reasserted his claim to a starting spot.
Trusty’s return couldn’t come at a better time for Celtic, who face a packed schedule of league, cup and European fixtures in the coming weeks.
