Doctor Confirmed Celtic star rule out for rest of season in devastating injury blow during International break
Celtic defender Auston Trusty has moved quickly to ease any concerns after his late withdrawal during the United States’ friendly defeat to Portugal.
The centre-half was forced off in stoppage time in Atlanta, having put in a solid showing despite his side going down 2-0. Given the timing and the way he left the pitch, there was an understandable worry among supporters back in Glasgow.
Celtic have had little luck on the injury front this season. Another setback at this stage, with the league campaign entering its final stretch, would have been badly timed.
Trusty, though, has cleared it up himself. The 27-year-old confirmed on X that the issue was nothing more than cramp in both calves, which brought his night to an early end in the 91st minute.
It is the kind of update Martin O’Neill will have wanted to hear. The Hoops head to Dens Park on Sunday knowing there is very little margin for error left.
Results elsewhere could tighten things further before a ball is kicked. Rangers are in action on Saturday, with Hearts also playing earlier on Sunday, meaning Celtic may arrive in Dundee under added pressure depending on how those games fall.
Trusty will likely be managed through the early part of the week after the demands of international duty, but there is no indication of anything serious keeping him out.
He didn’t feature in the defeat at Tannadice before the break and will be keen to get himself back involved. Celtic looked short at the back that day, and his presence would be a welcome return as they try to steady things.
There is no hiding from the position they find themselves in. Too many dropped points across the season have left them chasing, and there is no room left for another off day.
With seven Premiership fixtures remaining before the split, the equation is simple. Win games or forget about retaining the title.
It has been a stop-start campaign, shaped as much by inconsistency as anything else. That has to change now.
Trusty’s update at least removes one concern from the list. Celtic need as many fit bodies as possible for what is left.
Auston Trusty, the Celtic defender, has withdrawn from the US national team due to a calf injury, sparking concerns about his availability for Celtic’s upcoming matches. Trusty had a standout performance against Portugal, playing the full 90 minutes, but was forced off late with cramp, raising fears of a more serious issue ¹ ².
Despite the injury, Trusty’s display against Portugal earned him praise from US pundits, who believe he has made a strong case for a World Cup spot. His impressive stats include 66 touches, 2 tackles, 1 block, 9 clearances, and 6 recoveries ³ ⁴.
C Celtic will be monitoring Trusty’s condition closely, as his absence could impact their title hopes. With Liam Scales also injured, Maik Nawrocki could get an extended run in the first team
