Celtic boss Martin O’Neill has addressed fresh concerns over Auston Trusty’s fitness ahead of a crucial clash with Dundee, insisting there is no reason for alarm despite the defender’s limited training involvement.
The Hoops are preparing for another important trip to Dundee following the March international break, with pressure mounting as the Scottish Premiership title race heats up.
During last month’s defeat to Dundee United, Trusty was left on the bench. However, the defender made the most of his time away on international duty with the United States, putting in a strong performance despite their loss to Portugal.
His display earned praise, although there was a late scare when he was forced off in the closing minutes with what appeared to be an injury.
Thankfully, the issue was later confirmed to be cramp rather than anything serious. Still, his lack of involvement in training since returning to Lennoxtown has raised concerns among supporters.
O’Neill was quick to ease those fears, offering reassurance in his latest update.
“He just travelled back, but he is fine,” O’Neill told Sky Sports.
O’Neill Provides Key Trusty Update Ahead of Dundee Clash
The update will come as a major boost for Celtic fans, especially with the team entering a decisive stage of the season.
The Hoops currently sit third in the Premiership table, five points behind league leaders Hearts, and are not considered favourites to retain their title.
That makes every upcoming fixture crucial — and having key players fit could make all the difference.
Trusty has already shown his importance to the squad, particularly during Celtic’s recent trip to Ibrox in the Scottish Cup, where his presence proved vital.
With a demanding schedule in recent months, fatigue has clearly played a role in Celtic’s inconsistent performances.
O’Neill acknowledged that the intensity of fixtures before the international break may have taken its toll on his players.
“The games leading into the break might have caught up with us,” he admitted. “We didn’t perform well in that last match, and we’ll be looking to put that right this weekend.”
The Celtic manager also highlighted the positives of the international break, noting how it benefited both those who travelled and those who remained at the club.
“For the players away on international duty, it was good they had matches to play. And for those who stayed behind, the break has probably done them a lot of good.”
Addressing Trusty’s situation directly, O’Neill added:
“Auston didn’t do that much today (Friday). He just travelled back, but he is fine.”
All Eyes on Dundee Showdown
With a crucial match against Dundee approaching, Celtic will be desperate to return to winning ways and keep their title hopes alive.
Supporters will be hoping Trusty is ready to play a full part, as his presence could prove decisive in what is shaping up to be a defining moment in the Hoops’ season.
Anything less than three points could further dent their ambitions — making this weekend’s clash one of their most important yet.
