Celtic are one injury away from ‘trouble’ after source update on Jullien – pundit
Kevin Phillips insists the return of Christopher Jullien will be a boost to Celtic and Ange Postecoglou, even if it is still weeks away.
The Sunderland legend, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, reacted to an update on the defender.
A Celtic source has told Football Insider that Jullien is not expected to return for the Bhoys until next month at the earliest.
He has been missing since suffering a serious knee injury late in 2020.
However, Ange Postecoglou has named the French centre-back in his Europa League squad.
The centre half also missed some games in the early stages of last season with a back injury.
Phillips claims Jullien will almost be like a new signing to Postecoglou.
“It’s hard to avoid the phrase ‘like a new signing’, but it almost is,” Phillips told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.
“It’s a boost for everyone. It will be great to have him back on the training ground ahead of a busy winter.
“It’s a boost in an area where they have been lacking. They have been scoring every week but there have been some errors at the back as well.
“Having Jullien back will be a boost to Postecoglou because it’s more depth as well.
“Celtic are one injury away from trouble in that defence and there may well be some knocks once the European fixtures come.
“At the very least, players will need a rest at some point. It’s brilliant news.”
Celtic are gearing up for a return to European action this week.
They travel to Spain to face Real Betis on Thursday.
In other news, McLeish suggests Postecoglou demanding new contract for Celtic star up for free in 2022