Strachan makes case for the defence
Celtic manager Gordon Strachan was informed today he will definitely be without John Hartson for the CIS Insurance Cup final – but he is convinced his dodgy defence will improve.
Strachan was unsure whether the Wales striker’s booking during their fortunate semi-final victory over Motherwell had earned him a suspension from the Hampden Park showpiece.
But the Scottish Football Association confirmed the caution had ruled Hartson out against Dunfermline on March 19.
Dion Dublin could get a surprise appearance in the final but it is the back four which is causing Strachan most concern having recorded their 11th game without a clean sheet.
He started with a back four of Adam Virgo, Stephen McManus, Stanislav Varga and Mo Camara but Motherwell would have knocked them out with better finishing.
But, with Mark Wilson and Paul Telfer ready to return after suspension and injury respectively and Bobo Balde set to come back from the African Nations soon, Strachan is keeping his fingers crossed that the defending will improve.
“We should have a few players right for the Falkirk game next week,” said the Hoops boss.
“We could have Telfer and Wilson back and Balde coming back soon so we could have a reasonable back four again, similar to the start of the season, which can only be good.”
