Celtic handed massive Cameron Carter-Vickers boost amid defensive concerns

The American international made his comeback during Sunday’s 2-1 victory over Hibs at Easter Road, replacing Alistair Johnston after the Canadian suffered another injury setback.

Carter-Vickers had been sidelined with a groin problem, forcing O’Neill to rely on alternative defensive options in recent weeks.

And Sammon believes the 28-year-old’s return could prove crucial for Celtic, particularly after another unconvincing defensive display in Edinburgh.

Speaking on BBC’s Scottish Football Podcast, Sammon said: “I think it will make a massive difference. The game (Sunday) Celtic did look shaky at the back, they gave up lots of opportunities to Hibs.

“It wasn’t for the case of Hibs playing good football. They were obviously very quick thinking for their goal early on but as the game went on you could see they didn’t have much of an attacking threat. They didn’t create an awful lot, it was down to misplaced passes around the back from Celtic.

“So having Carter-Vickers back in there will be a massive bonus for them. He makes the team better and with Alistair Johnston as well, he would be the icing on the cake for the back four, so to see him go off, hopefully it’s not a long-term thing and it’s just a niggle he’s come back and felt.

“But Carter-Vickers coming back will make Celtic a stronger team going forward.”