BBC: Full-back in race for fitness ahead of Celtic clash v Hibernian
By Danny Wright
Hibernian full-back Steven Whittaker is in a race to be fit for his side’s clash against Celtic on Saturday, according to a report.
BBC Sport claims that Whittaker, 33, is a doubt for the Scottish League Cup semi-final clash at Hampden with a hip injury and will be “assessed” prior to the match.
Whittaker has been ever-present for Neil Lennon’s side this term and will no doubt be a major miss if he is unable to start against the Hoops, who will be looking to preserve their unbeaten run at the national stadium and book their spot in the League Cup final.
The former Rangers and Norwich defender was instrumental in Hibs’ 2-2 draw at Celtic Park last month when his side came close to beating the Bhoys.
The Scot almost scored but for a brilliant save from Craig Gordon and also supplied an assist to one of John McGinns’ goals.
On a positive note for Hibernian, it also is understood that they will have Paul Hanlon available, after he missed training on Friday due to a virus.
Celtic have injury concerns of their own with Jozo Simunovic and Erik Sviatchenko ruled out of the clash, meaning Dedryck Boyata is the only fully fit centre-back to take part at Hampden.
Brendan Rodgers used Mikael Lustig at centre-back against Bayern Munich in midweek and is likely to do the same against Hibernian.
In other Celtic news, Chris Sutton has issued a stern warning to the Bhoys ahead of the clash against Hibs.
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