CELTIC favourite Jota has provided a rare update on his long-ongoing injury status.
The Portuguese star returned to Parkhead in January and struggled to lock down a starting XI place in his first few months after struggling for minutes in Saudi Arabia and France.
But by April of this year came the news that his season was over early as he was spotted on crutches following a knee injury against Dundee United.
Then-manager Brendan Rodgers confirmed he could be out for as long as nine months which would mean not returning to action until around Feburary 2026.
The 26-year-old recently made a rare public appearance as he attended a club superstore signing event alongside Daizen Maeda.
He was asked by CelticTV how good it feels to be back mixing with the fans.
He replied: “It’s always lovely to be around people and share a bit what Celtic is about.
“Can’t wait to [get] some minutes, take some photos, and just to be around the people again and feel the love.”
With fellow Hoops wingers Michel Ange-Balikwisha and Sebastian Tounekti likely to be unavailable through the duration of AFCON, another option on the wing would be most welcome.
Players going to the tournament will need to be released in less than two weeks time.
Jota was asked how his recovery is going, and responded: “All good, I’m really thrilled to just come back and do my thing again with the help of the lads.
“I think it’s going the right way, but obviously it’s a big one so we just need to be sure about everything and that’s what I want to do.”
So no further setbacks on the injury front, but no suggestion that he’ll be back involved any sooner than expected either, unfortunately for the Parkhead faithful.
He made 16 appearances before becoming crocked last season and notched five goals and two assists in that time.
The winger was also asked if he was keen to get back and show new manager Wilfried Nancy what he can do.
He said: “It’s a new part of the journey.
“I think all of our values and principles will be there, but it’s just a matter of time now for everyone to adapt and feel good again and just to go after it.”
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