Celtic have demanded their players are properly protected from coronavirus after Hatem Elhamed became the latest big name in Neil Lennon’s squad to test positive for Covid-19.
The Israeli had been self-isolating in his homeland after feeling unwell following a 2-1 loss to Czech Republic on Sunday night – two days after Celtic teammate Nir Bitton went down with the virus.
Both will now miss Saturday’s Old Firm derby along with Ryan Christie, who has been ordered to quarantine as a close contact of Stuart Armstrong.
Celtic talisman Odsonne Edouard posted a positive swab after reporting for duty with France Under-21s last week. The striker is expected back in Glasgow no later than Friday after self-isolating in Paris.
A statement said: “Celtic can confirm that Hatem Elhamed has tested positive for Covid-19 on international duty and is now required to enter a 13-day period of isolation in line with regulations in Israel.
“Our medical staff will maintain constant dialogue with him and will provide all required support.
“We are disappointed and frustrated that another player on international duty has tested positive – during an international period that is continuing to present huge challenges for the club.
“While FIFA regulations determine that clubs are obliged to release players for international duty, going forward we are sure wider discussions will take place around this hugely important issue. We will monitor these discussions closely.
Record Sport under-stands Celtic’s top brass are bitterly disappointed government health experts have not given Christie the all-clear to face Rangers this weekend – despite the Scotland star recording a string of negative tests since being forced to leave Steve Clarke’s squad.
A club source said: “We’ve been badly affected over the international break and the situation with Ryan is particularly difficult to understand.
“But the team has a big game to focus on this weekend and we have to get on with it.”
