Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has revealed how long he expects Hoops midfielder, Paulo Bernardo, to be out for after limping off against Raith Rovers this evening at Celtic Park.
Bernardo was forced to be substituted before halftime after taking a number of knocks to his ankle following a challenge with Jordan Doherty.
The Portuguese midfielder would then signal to the bench, indicating that he needed to come off, just minutes after being fouled in midfield. With Reo Hatate replacing Bernardo in the 37th minute.
With Bayern Munich visiting Celtic Park on Wednesday night in the Champions League, the Hoops are already without Daizen Maeda for the game due to suspension. Paulo Bernardo would be a significant miss if he were to be sidelined as well.
However, Rodgers explained exactly when he expects Bernardo to return after the disappointing injury he suffered against Barry Robson’s side.
He said: (Premier Sports), “Well, I spoke to Tim (Williamson). He said he probably came off as a precaution, just rocked his ankle a wee bit, but should be okay (for Wednesday).”
Tim Williamson is, of course, Celtic’s Head of Physiotherapy and Medical Services. He joined the club in 2002, left in 2008, but returned in 2010, meaning he has now served over 20 years at Celtic. Rodgers clearly values his expert opinion on the injury ahead of Wednesday’s match.
Bernardo may not start against Bayern, but he is likely to play a huge part off the bench, with his ability to win and retain possession proving vital in Europe over the last 18 months. Rodgers will therefore, look to utilise him at some point against Vincent Kompany’s side.
It will be one to watch over the coming days, with Rodgers likely to reveal if Bernardo has shaken off the injury in his pre-match press conference. However, for now, it is a positive update on the Portuguese midfielder.
