Kelechi Iheanacho and Alistair Johnston Injury update after Celtic’s 2-1 win over Sturm Graz in the Europa League match

Brendan Rodgers Concerned as Celtic Win Over Sturm Graz Marred by Fresh Injury Blows

Brendan Rodgers spoke to the media following Celtic’s 2–1 victory over Sturm Graz, offering a mixed reaction to what should have been a night of European celebration overshadowed by new injury setbacks.

Celtic battled back from a goal down to claim their first Europa League win of the season, but the result was tempered by first-half injuries to Alistair Johnston and Kelechi Iheanacho. Both players were forced off before the break, disrupting the team’s rhythm and forcing Rodgers into early tactical changes.

Johnston appeared to pull up while sprinting into position, while Iheanacho lasted only a few minutes longer before limping off clutching his leg. The pair received treatment on the bench before being escorted down the tunnel for further assessment.

In his post-match comments, Rodgers admitted that the mood in the dressing room was more cautious than celebratory, acknowledging that both injuries could have serious implications ahead of Sunday’s crucial Premiership clash with Hearts. Celtic’s squad has already been stretched in recent weeks, and the potential loss of two key starters adds further pressure on the manager’s selection options.

Speaking to TNT Sports, Rodgers said:

“The first two don’t look great — it looks like hamstrings. But okay, that’s football. It happens.”

Rodgers’ concern was understandable. Johnston’s defensive reliability and attacking drive have been central to Celtic’s play down the right flank, while Iheanacho’s movement and link-up ability were expected to play a major role in their European campaign. Losing both players at once would be a major setback at a pivotal point in the season.

With the trip to Tynecastle fast approaching, the timing of the injuries could hardly be worse. Rodgers may now need to turn to the likes of Anthony Ralston, Colby Donovan, or Johnny Kenny to fill the gaps if either player fails to recover in time.

While Rodgers remained pragmatic about the situation, the mounting strain on his squad is becoming increasingly evident. How Celtic manage these setbacks could prove decisive as they navigate a busy fixture schedule over the coming weeks.

For now, the Celtic boss can take satisfaction in the hard-fought win over Sturm Graz — but his immediate focus will be on the treatment room, where updates on Johnston and Iheanacho will shape his plans for the trip to Edinburgh.