Celtic boss Martin O’Neill explains why Benjamin Nygren missed pre-season clash

Martin O’Neill delivers encouraging Benjamin Nygren injury update

Martin O’Neill has provided a positive update on Benjamin Nygren’s fitness after the Celtic midfielder missed the club’s recent pre-season fixtures with an Achilles problem.

The Sweden international returned to Glasgow later than most of the squad following his involvement at the World Cup, but an Achilles issue prevented him from featuring as Celtic wrapped up their preparations for the new campaign.

Speaking ahead of the Premiership opener, O’Neill revealed the injury is no longer causing major concern.

The Celtic manager explained that Nygren has resumed training and believes the midfielder is working through what he described as a minor problem.

Rather than rushing the 24-year-old back into action, the club have carefully managed his recovery after a demanding summer on international duty, allowing him additional time to regain full fitness.

Nygren enjoyed an impressive debut campaign at Celtic Park, scoring more than 20 goals despite not being a regular starter throughout the season. His performances inevitably attracted transfer interest, but the Hoops remain focused on having him available for another crucial campaign.

His return to training is a timely boost for O’Neill, who is preparing his side for another Scottish Premiership title challenge while also targeting success in Europe.

With new arrivals Kasper Høgh and Camilo Duran already strengthening the squad and further signings still expected before the transfer window closes, the return of a fully fit Nygren would provide Celtic with another important attacking option ahead of a demanding season.