Celtic have suffered another injury setback after Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho sustained a hamstring problem during the League Cup final.
The 29-year-old, who only recently returned from a two-month layoff, was forced off in the first half after pulling up while chasing a forward pass.
He was replaced by Johnny Kenny in the 33rd minute as the Hoops opted not to take any risks.
Early exit compounds fitness concerns
Iheanacho had only just resumed action following a hamstring injury sustained in Celtic’s UEFA Europa League clash against Sturm Graz, where he lasted four minutes.
His recovery saw him eased back via substitute appearances before making a more extended return in last Thursday’s Europa League defeat to AS Roma.
Nancy’s caution proves justified
New head coach Wilfried Nancy had already stressed the need to manage Iheanacho’s minutes carefully, noting the striker required game time to rebuild match sharpness after a prolonged absence.
Contract questions resurface
Despite showing encouraging signs early on against St. Mirren, including forcing goalkeeper Shamal George into a smart save with a header, the Nigeria international was unable to complete the half.
The latest setback raises further concerns over his durability and could influence Celtic’s decision on whether to extend the one-year deal he signed.