Carter-Vickers Left Behind as Celtic Squad Fly Out to Bergamo

Celtic will face Atalanta on Wednesday night without the key presence of Cameron Carter-Vickers, as the American defender did not Travel with the squad to Italy. Despite hopes that he might return for this crucial Champions League clash, the 25-year-old remains sidelined.

Carter-Vickers had returned to training last week, sparking optimism among fans that he could make his comeback in Bergamo. However, it appears Brendan Rodgers and the medical team have decided not to risk the centre-back, who hasn’t played since Matchday 1.

Celtic’s defence has looked shaky, most notably in the 7-1 hammering at the hands of Borussia Dortmund on Matchday 2. The absence of Carter-Vickers, who provides leadership and physicality at the back, will be felt keenly against an Atalanta side known for their attacking threat.

With Carter-Vickers unavailable, Rodgers will have to rely on other defensive options, likely keeping faith in the pairing of Liam Scales and Auston Trusty, who have filled in during Cameron’s absence. Trusty has really struggled playing on the right hand side of defence being a left footer.

It’s clear Celtic need a strong showing in Bergamo to prove their European credentials, but they’ll have to do it without their defensive rock. Fans will now be hoping Carter-Vickers can return for the next domestic fixtures against Motherwell on Sunday.