CCV Celtic fitness update as Brendan Rodgers set to make Ross County call

Brendan Rodgers has hinted Cameron Carter-Vickers could feature for Celtic in their Premiership season opener against Ross County this afternoon.

The defender has been back in training for the Hoops since having surgery on his knee at the end of last season. It was initially expected he would miss the start of the new 2023/24 campaign but his recovery has been speedy and he managed to get some minutes under the belt in the friendly win over Athletic Club on Wednesday.

The American looked comfortable in what was his first game back for Celtic since the Scottish Cup Final win over Inverness CT in May. And boss Rodgers has a decision to make over whether to start him against the Staggies on flag day – but did suggest game time will be the most beneficial outcome for him in order to build up fitness.

The Northern Irishman said: “I’ve seen Cameron from afar, seen him play for Celtic a number of times, and was impressed.

“But to see him close up, he’s a very, very good player. He’d been out on the pitch for four to five weeks, not always with us. He’s still a wee bit behind, but he can get the fitness through games as well.

“He’s a naturally fit boy. He’s been very impressive since coming in. I know his education. I know John McDermott, the technical director at the English FA, very well.

“John was at Tottenham for 15 years, so I know all the boys there that have come through. All the players are well-schooled in the game and on standards.”