Injury to Christopher Jullien will force Celtic into transfer market

Celtic are set to sign a new centre-half after learning Christopher Jullien could be out injured until May.

The French defender had to be stretchered off during last week’s game against Dundee United after smashing his knee into a goalpost while clearing a shot.

“He is going to be out for a few months,” said Celtic manager Neil Lennon yesterday.

“He has ruptured ligaments in his knee. Obviously that was a blow coming in to the game.

“So in terms of signings, yes, it is an area where we will probably look to bring someone in.”

James Tavernier meanwhile insists he will have no problem shutting out the transfer window noise this month.

The Rangers skipper has been in brilliant form over the first half of the 2020-21 campaign.

Despite playing at right back, he has scored 17 goals, 11 of which have been in the Premiership.

That has led to him being linked with, among others, West Ham, Newcastle United and Tottenham.

However, with Light Blues manager Steven Gerrard adamant he is not for sale, the 28-year-old is relaxed about being in a period where all the talk is of who is going where and for how much.

“Personally, when you’re happy and comfortable, you don’t tend to be on your phone every day looking at the transfer market,” he said.

“I can’t speak for everyone, but I can imagine that if players are wanting to leave or trying to get more game time, they’ll be looking at the window.

“When it’s open, everyone will have a look at who is moving where, but personally I’m really enjoying my football and I’m concentrating on training as hard as I can and working really hard for the club.”

It is an attitude that Tavernier says means he’s keen to come through a hectic period unscathed.

“The winter break has obviously been cancelled, but it means we can carry on playing games.

“You want to play big games, but the mentality this season is that every game is a massive game.

“The game against St Mirren last midweek was a massive game. We treat every single game as a cup final.

“We approach it right; we train right through the week. When you see all these fixtures coming up, you are rubbing your hands and you can’t wait to play.”

The 28-year-old insists Rangers push has been a far bigger team effort than simply the players on the park.

“The sports science department is one of the best I’ve seen,” he said.

“They push the boys when it’s needed during the week. If you need rest or a gym session, they’re always on it.

“You can see the facilities at the training ground too. We’ve got the cryotherapy chamber for recovery. That department is second to none.”