Celtic’s Cameron Carter-Vickers boost ahead of Sporting clash | OneFootball

Cameron Carter-Vickers has made his long-awaited return to full training as Celtic’s pre-season preparations continue to heat up under the Lisbon sun, ahead of tomorrow night’s friendly match with Sporting…

The American centre-half was pictured grafting with the rest of his teammates this week, much to the delight of the support — and no doubt to the relief of Brendan Rodgers, who knows just how pivotal the defender is to his plans.

The big man from across the pond had a minor knee procedure earlier in the summer — a tidy clean-up job following some late-season niggles that had hampered his usual dominance at the back. The club wisely opted to nip it in the bud after the curtain came down on the 2024/25 campaign, ensuring he wouldn’t be troubled heading into the new season.

Cameron Carter-Vickers. Dundee v Celtic. 14th January 2025. Photo Vagelis Georgariou

Rodgers recently gave an encouraging update on his defensive stalwart. “He had some issues towards the end of the season,” the manager admitted, “but we felt it was best to get it sorted right away. The op was straightforward, and he’s been back doing the work. He’ll be up to speed soon enough.”

Now fully reintegrated with the squad at their Portuguese base, Carter-Vickers looks sharp, focused, and ready to play his part of the squad leadership group we’ve come to rely on in recent seasons.

Celtic’s social media channels shared a snap of him hard at work, captioned simply – “CCV putting in the hard work under the Portuguese sun.”

Cameron Carter-Vickers has been nothing short of a revelation in the heart of Celtic’s defence, since he signed for Celtic, initially on loan. Quietly assured and commanding presence on the field, the USA international quickly established himself as one of the most reliable centre-backs the club has seen in the modern era. His composure on the ball, positional intelligence, and physical strength have all made him a rock at the back during a period of significant success for the club.

Cameron Carter-Vickers of Celtic celebrates with teammates after the team’s victory in the penalty shoot out during the Premier Sports Cup Final between Celtic and Rangers at Hampden Park on December 15, 2024. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

It’s no surprise, then, that his return to full training has been met with such positivity. Across four seasons in the Hoops, Carter-Vickers has lifted nine major honours — including four Premiership titles — and has been a near-automatic pick whenever fit.

More than just a defender, CCV is also part of the club’s leadership core — a steady figure who sets the tone with his professionalism and quiet authority.

Cameron Carter-Vickers celebrates scoring the opening goal in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final between Celtic and Aberdeen at Hampden. Photo AJ (The Celtic Star)

As Celtic prepare to defend their league crown and face the challenge of European football once more, having a player of his calibre fit and firing is crucial.

His early return ensures stability at the back, experience on the pitch, and continuity in the dressing room. With a massive season ahead, Carter-Vickers’ presence could again prove decisive as Celtic chase more silverware at home and look to build on the European progress made in the Champions League last season.

Niall J

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