Kennedy can take his time, says Strachan
Celtic manager Gordon Strachan welcomed the imminent return of John Kennedy but insists the big defender will not be rushed back into action.
Kennedy’s left knee was shattered on his Scotland debut against Romania at Hampden in March 2004, and his promising career was put on hold.
The 23-year-old has undergone four operations and overcame a depressing setback in his bid to regain full fitness.
Kennedy, however, has been training since pre-season and his long-awaited comeback could come against Dunfermline reserves next Tuesday.
Ahead of the trip to Falkirk in the SPL on Sunday, Strachan said: “John is training just now and we will see how he is at the end of the week, maybe Sunday.
“He’s been training this week and he’s looked quite comfortable. But we will let John decide because he’s been out a long time.
“It’s satisfying for me but huge for him that he is returning so we are keeping our fingers crossed.”
Celtic striker Craig Beattie admits Kennedy’s return would be a massive boost to the squad as the Hoops seek to retain their SPL title and make an impact in the Champions League group stages.
He said: “He’s on the mend so it’s great for everyone.
“There would no bigger boost for John and his family, they have gone through a hell of a time but he’s getting closer.
“He’s got to continue working hard, he knows that but he will do so.
“He’s a terrific talent but he hasn’t played now for two and a half years so it’s going to be hard but fingers crossed for him.”
Kennedy’s return will mean added competition in the centre-back area where the form of Gary Caldwell and Stephen McManus is keeping Bobo Balde on the sidelines.
Beattie, however, has recently returned after a year’s absence with a hamstring injury and has his own problems trying to find a starting place in attack with Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink, Kenny Miller and Maciej Zurawski all seemingly ahead of the 22-year-old in the pecking order.
But the ever-confident Scotland international, who could make his first start in the SPL this season at Falkirk due to the Dutchman’s ankle injury, insists he will not be looking for a loan deal when the transfer window reopens in January.
“I’m definitely here for the long term,” he said.
“I’m still 22 and I’m not going anywhere unless I’m told that I’m not good enough and I don’t feel that’s the case.
“The manager is encouraging and very approachable and he told me if I keep working hard then there will be chances.
“We’ve got a strong squad and there are boys that don’t even get stripped who have great ability. So I’m just working hard to try and force my way in.
“My confidence hasn’t taken a battering at all. It’s been frustrating year I will say that much but now I’m back fit and I’m delighted.
“I would like to think there is a place for me but it’s up to myself. I’ve got to go and prove it, it’s not going to be handed to me but I know what I want to do.”
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