Celtic Suffer Europa League Setback as Callum Osmand Injured in Defeat to Midtjylland
Celtic endured a miserable night in the Europa League, with a worrying injury to Callum Osmand compounding their 3-1 defeat to FC Midtjylland. The loss marked Martin O’Neill’s first defeat since taking over as caretaker manager, as the Scottish champions were overwhelmed by three quick-fire goals in the first half.
O’Neill made several substitutions after the break in an effort to spark a response, with Osmand among those introduced. The 19-year-old forward made an immediate impact, impressing with his energy and winning a penalty that Reo Hatateconverted to give Celtic a glimmer of hope.
However, the youngster’s night ended prematurely when he pulled up clutching his hamstring while chasing down a defender. Clearly in distress, Osmand was stretchered off to warm applause from both sets of supporters.
Providing an update, O’Neill said:
“He’s pulled a hamstring. He’s very young, and it’s never happened to him before. I told him this is just a setback — not the end — and he’ll bounce back. He’ll be out for a few weeks now.”
The interim boss also revealed that Arne Engels was feeling his hamstring after the match, adding:
“The games are coming thick and fast with European football.”
The timing of Osmand’s injury is particularly unfortunate, with Celtic’s ongoing striker shortage giving him a valuable opportunity to shine.
Osmand had recently enjoyed a breakthrough run in the team, scoring in the 3-1 extra-time win over Rangers in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final and netting three goals in six appearances this season despite limited minutes.
Celtic will look to bounce back this weekend when they host Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premiership.
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