Celtic goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel faces retirement after severe injury
Celtic goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel has admitted he may be forced to retire from professional football after suffering a devastating shoulder injury that requires double surgery.
The 39-year-old Danish international sustained a dislocated shoulder alongside complex tears to his bicep, rotator cuff, and labrum.
Speaking on a CBS Sports broadcast, he confirmed the extensive rehabilitation process will keep him sidelined for up to 12 months.
With his current contract expiring at the end of the season, the veteran stopper acknowledged that his appearance on 22 February may have been his final professional game.
Devastating reality for experienced custodian
The former Premier League winner initially damaged the joint while on international duty against Portugal last year, but had continued to play through the pain.
I could have potentially played my last ever football game.
I have been a footballer since the day I was born. That kind of thought is devastating.
It’s very, very hard to wrap my head around, at the moment.
Sinisalo steps up for title run-in
Prior to this enforced absence, the long-serving international made 39 appearances across all competitions this term, conceding 49 goals and keeping 14 clean sheets.
However, recent inconsistent performances had drawn criticism from supporters, leading to deputy Viljami Sinisalo taking over starting duties last month.
Sinisalo is now set to remain in goal for the crucial upcoming Scottish Premiership fixtures as the Parkhead club attempt to catch current league leaders Hearts.
Managerial changes loom at Parkhead
The Glasgow giants are also preparing for significant changes off the pitch this summer, when interim manager Martin O’Neill is expected to depart.
Motherwell boss Jens Berthel Askou is reportedly extremely keen on taking the permanent managerial role.
Askou has impressed during his tenure at Fir Park, guiding his side to fourth in the table and firmly establishing his credentials.
