Scottish pundit fears ‘massive setback’ for Jota after another ‘huge blow’ confirmed at Celtic
Alan Hutton has admitted Celtic have been dealt a “huge blow” with Jota ruled out with a hamstring injury.
The former Rangers defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the Bhoys cannot rush the 22-year-old back or risk a “massive setback” in his recovery process.
Speaking to Sky Sports on Sunday (5 December), Ange Postecoglou confirmed Jota will be out of action for “a few weeks”.
The winger suffered the hamstring injury against Hearts and missed the win over Dundee United.
Hutton admitted Celtic would have to be extra cautious with the winger or face further problems down the line.
Hutton told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “Hamstrings, I’ve went through it myself. It’s not an ideal situation and it normally comes through fatigue.
“We know he’s an explosive player, he plays a lot of minutes. He’s been on top form recently. It’s a huge blow but you can’t rush it.
“Even as a player, if you have come back just three, four, five days too early, it can just go again and it’s a massive setback. So you need to take your time.
“Make sure you’re 100 per cent before you start ramping it up.”
Jota has been a mainstay since joining on loan from Benfica this summer.
He has played 18 times across all competitions, with eight goals and six assists to his name.
With the Portuguese winger out, Postecoglou brought Mikey Johnstone into the starting XI against Dundee United.
The Hoops also have Liel Abada and James Forrest as their winger options.
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