Brendan Rodgers has revealed that Celtic will be missing defender Erik Sviatchenko from the first leg of their Champions League qualifier against FC Astana tomorrow.
The Celtic boss has been dabbling with his defensive options ahead of their trip to Kazakhstan as few of his key defenders have been struggling with knocks and injuries.
Jozo Simunovic has already been ruled out with an injury, and Rodgers confirmed that Sviatchenko won’t be taking part in the crucial Champions League game because of a groin strain.
And he admits that further assessment is needed before declaring the Dane fit for the return leg in Scotland next week.
The Celtic boss said in a press conference: "He had been working well but unfortunately before the game he picked up a groin strain, [and is] unavailable for tomorrow night.
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"We will assess it and see if he will be available for the second leg."
Celtic had to work hard to beat Gibraltar minnows Lincoln Red Imps in the previous round, and Rodgers will be hoping that they manage to get a positive result in Kazakhstan tomorrow night.
The Scottish champions have not been in the Champions League group stage since the 2013/14 season.
