Jullien return ‘massive’ for Celtic after reveal that will ‘excite the fans’ – Ex-manager
Alex McLeish has insisted the return of Christopher Jullien from injury will be “massive” for Celtic.
However, the former Scotland boss, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted fans may have to temper expectations over the 28-year-old’s comeback.
As revealed by Football Insider (7th September), 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.
Ange Postecoglou has named the French centre-back among his Europa League squad.
McLeish insisted Jullien’s potential return will have Celtic fans excited.
However, he warned it could take time for the defensive enforcer to get back up to speed.
“He would be a massive return for them, absolutely,” McLeish told Football Insider’s Russell Edge.
“Then again, will they get him back at full pelt? Will he be ready in the first few games?
“Sometimes when you’re out for a long injury you can be a wee bit rusty. It’s why the physios and the science team are paid the money nowadays.
“To make sure that he is at a level to go straight back and hit the ground running.
“I’ve always felt that centre-halves and big defensive guys sometimes need a couple of games to get back again.
“Of course, the demands of Celtic and Rangers, the big teams, these players have to come in and excite the fans right away.”
Jullien has played 61 times and scored 10 goals for Celtic to date.
He made 14 appearances last season before being sidelined.
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