Chris Sutton Expresses Concern Over Celtic’s Defensive Vulnerability Without Cameron Carter-Vickers
Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton has voiced his concerns about the team’s defensive vulnerability when Cameron Carter-Vickers is not playing. Sutton’s worries stem from Celtic’s recent struggles, including their 2-2 draw against Aberdeen and the 7-0 thrashing by Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League.
Celtic’s defensive frailties have been exposed in Carter-Vickers’ absence, and Sutton believes that the American defender is the “rock” of Celtic’s defense. His absence significantly impacts the team’s performance, and Sutton’s concerns are well-founded.
“I worry every time Celtic take to the field and he isn’t playing,” Sutton said on Sky Sports Football. “They aren’t the same defensively.” This sentiment echoes the feelings of many Celtic fans, who have witnessed their team’s defensive struggles firsthand.
Carter-Vickers has been plagued by injury issues, which have kept him sidelined for crucial matches. His absence has been felt deeply, and Celtic’s defensive vulnerabilities have been exploited by opposing teams.
Auston Trusty, Celtic’s summer signing, has been tasked with filling Carter-Vickers’ shoes. However, Sutton is unsure if Trusty has adequately filled the void. “Trusty has come in, big shoes to fill. I’m not sure, at this moment in time, he has filled them adequately,” Sutton said.
Sutton emphasized the need for patience with Trusty, acknowledging that he requires time to adapt to Celtic’s playing style and the Scottish Premiership. Trusty’s transition from Sheffield United and Arsenal has not been seamless, and he faces significant pressure in replacing Carter-Vickers.
On the other hand, Sutton did praise Liam Scales’ performance, stating that he has been “pretty good.” This suggests that Scales could be a reliable option for Celtic’s defense, potentially forming a strong partnership with Trusty or Carter-Vickers.
Celtic’s upcoming Champions League match against Atalanta poses a significant challenge. Brendan Rodgers’ team will need to address their defensive concerns to compete against top-tier opposition. Atalanta’s attacking prowess will test Celtic’s defense, and the absence of Carter-Vickers could be felt deeply.
Sutton’s concerns highlight the importance of Carter-Vickers’ return to fitness. Celtic’s defensive solidity relies heavily on his presence, and his absence exacerbates their vulnerability. Rodgers must find a solution to shore up his defense, whether through Trusty’s development or exploring alternative options.
The Champions League has been a baptism by fire for Celtic, with the 7-0 loss to Borussia Dortmund serving as a harsh reminder of their defensive weaknesses. While Celtic has dominated domestically, their European struggles have raised questions about their ability to compete against elite teams.
Rodgers has faced criticism for his tactics, particularly in big games. The pressure is on him to adapt and find a solution to Celtic’s defensive woes. The return of Carter-Vickers would be a significant boost, but until then, Rodgers must rely on his other defenders to step up.
Celtic’s fans are anxious to see their team compete effectively in the Champions League. The absence of Carter-Vickers has heightened concerns, and Sutton’s comments have added fuel to the debate. As Celtic prepares for their European clash, they must find a solution to their defensive struggles.
In the world of football, injuries can greatly impact a team’s performance. Celtic’s struggles without Carter-Vickers serve as a prime example. The team’s ability to adapt and overcome his absence will be crucial in their quest for success.
Sutton’s comments have sparked a renewed focus on Celtic’s defensive vulnerabilities. As the team navigates the challenges of the Champions League, they must find a way to shore up their defense. The return of Carter-Vickers would be a welcome boost, but until then, Rodgers must find alternative solutions.
The pressure is on Celtic to deliver, and their defensive performance will be under intense scrutiny. The Champions League stage is unforgiving, and Celtic must rise to the challenge. The absence of Carter-Vickers has heightened the stakes, and Rodgers must find a way to overcome this significant obstacle.
As the football community watches Celtic’s journey, they will be eager to see how Rodgers addresses his team’s defensive concerns. The return of Carter-Vickers would be a significant step forward, but until then, Celtic must find a way to compete without their defensive rock.
In conclusion, Chris Sutton’s concerns about Celtic’s defensive vulnerability without Cameron Carter-Vickers are well-founded. The team’s struggles in his absence have highlighted the importance of his return to fitness. As Celtic navigates the challenges of the Champions League, they must find a solution to their defensive woes.