CELTIC STAR SET FOR DEVASTATING SPELL OUT AFTER SUFFERING ‘FRACTURED FOOT’ IN TRAINING FOR WEEKEND CLASH VS HEARTS

CELTIC STAR SET FOR DEVASTATING SPELL OUT AFTER SUFFERING ‘FRACTURED FOOT’ IN TRAINING FOR WEEKEND CLASH VS HEARTS

Celtic have been rocked by a major injury setback after midfielder Arne Engels suffered a fractured foot during a training session ahead of this weekend’s crucial clash against Hearts. The news has sent shockwaves through the club and its fanbase, with the Belgian now facing a potentially lengthy spell on the sidelines at a defining moment of the season.

The injury was sustained earlier this week at Lennoxtown during what was described as a high intensity but routine training drill. Engels was initially expected to shake off the knock, but further medical examinations confirmed a fracture, immediately ruling him out of the Hearts fixture and casting serious doubt over his availability for the coming weeks. Celtic’s medical team are continuing to assess the full extent of the injury, but early indications suggest the midfielder could be sidelined for a significant period.

Engels has quickly established himself as a vital component of Celtic’s midfield structure. His calmness in possession, tactical awareness, and relentless work rate have made him a favourite of the coaching staff and supporters alike. Since breaking into the starting lineup, he has been praised for bringing balance to the side, often acting as the glue between defence and attack. His absence will undoubtedly force a rethink in Celtic’s midfield approach, especially against a Hearts side known for their physicality and intensity.

Manager Martin O’Neil did not hide his frustration and concern when addressing the injury in his pre match comments. While careful not to place a timeline on Engels’ return, O’Neil admitted the setback was a bitter blow for both player and club.

“He’s a young player who has been giving us everything,” O’Neil said. “To lose him in training is always difficult to take. Arne has shown real maturity and courage in his performances, and this is a test of character for him now. We’ll support him fully through his recovery, but there’s no denying it’s a loss for us going into an important run of games.”

O’Neil also hinted that the squad would need to show resilience in Engels’ absence, stressing that setbacks are part of football at the highest level. “This is where the group has to stand up,” he added. “We won’t use injuries as excuses. The challenge is for others to step in and prove they belong.”

The reaction from Celtic supporters has been immediate and emotional, with many taking to social media to express sympathy for Engels and concern about the impact on the team. The sense of frustration is matched by a strong wave of support for the injured midfielder.

@HoopsDan wrote, “Absolutely gutted for Arne Engels. You could see how much he was growing into that midfield role. Speedy recovery, we need you back.”

@GreenBrigadeTom added, “This is a massive blow before Hearts. Engels has been one of our most consistent performers. Hope the club handles his recovery properly.”

Others focused on the broader implications for the title race and upcoming fixtures.

@CelticByNumbers said, “Losing Engels now is brutal timing. O’Neil has a big decision to make in midfield, especially away from home.”

There were also messages aimed directly at the player, urging patience and belief.

@LisbonLion88 posted, “Injuries happen, but this lad has the mentality to come back stronger. Heads up, Arne. The Celtic support is behind you.”

The Hearts clash was already shaping up to be a stern test for Celtic, and Engels’ injury only adds to the sense of challenge. Tynecastle has long been a hostile environment, and Hearts’ aggressive pressing style often disrupts Celtic’s rhythm. Without Engels’ composure and positional discipline, O’Neil may turn to alternative midfield combinations, possibly offering an opportunity for fringe players to stake their claim.

Inside the club, there remains cautious optimism that Engels can return before the season reaches its decisive phase, but no risks will be taken with his fitness. The focus is firmly on rehabilitation, ensuring the young midfielder makes a full recovery rather than rushing him back prematurely.

For now, Celtic must regroup, rally around their injured teammate, and find solutions on the pitch. As the fans’ reaction shows, Engels’ absence is keenly felt, but there is also a shared belief that adversity can strengthen the squad. The coming weeks will test Celtic’s depth, Martin O’Neil’s tactical adaptability, and the collective mentality of a team still chasing its ambitions despite another cruel injury blow.