Schmeichel reveals what was unusual about Cameron Carter-Vickers against LASK

Kasper Schmeichel was at Celtic Park on Wednesday night to watch his former club secure a 3-0 victory over LASK.

Few people in the stadium would have been more familiar with the Celtic squad than the former Hoops goalkeeper. Cameron Carter-Vickers was among those who started the match, having endured an injury-hit campaign last season, and Schmeichel was impressed with the defender’s display after the break.

However, there was one unusual moment when Carter-Vickers was beaten for pace by a LASK attacker. Speaking to TNT Sports, Schmeichel highlighted just how uncommon it is to see the American defender lose a foot race.

“This is something rare: CCV getting done for pace,” Schmeichel said. “Carter-Vickers has grown into this game. It was an injury-ridden season last year, but he has been excellent in this second half.”

Carter-Vickers spent a significant period on the sidelines last season, meaning he will understandably need some time to rediscover his best form.

The encouraging aspect is that the defender was able to enjoy a full pre-season, giving him valuable minutes ahead of the new campaign. With more games under his belt, Celtic will hope the 28-year-old can return to his previous level and help tighten up their defence.

For now, Carter-Vickers can take confidence from playing the full match and helping Martin O’Neill’s side keep a clean sheet against LASK, giving Celtic a strong advantage ahead of next week’s second leg in Austria.