Maik Nawrocki has stepped up in recent weeks to fill a crucial role in Celtic’s defence, and his performances have caught the eye of teammate Cameron Carter-Vickers.
The Polish centre-back, who had seen limited game time before his recent run in the team, has started the last two matches against Rangers and Hearts, forming a partnership with Carter-Vickers at the back.
The experienced defender has been impressed with Nawrocki’s ability to slot in despite his lack of minutes.
“I think he's done well,” Carter-Vickers said. “It's tough. I can't think of the last time he played. I'm sure it's probably close to a year ago. So, to come in and play two games back-to-back like that, it was always going to be a challenge for him physically and mentally and also just getting back into the rhythm of things. However, I think he's done well.”
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Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has had to adjust his defensive setup due to injuries sidelining both Liam Scales and Auston Trusty. While youngster Dane Murray was initially brought into the setup, Nawrocki has emerged as the preferred option alongside Carter-Vickers.
Meanwhile, Carter-Vickers has also taken on a leadership role in Callum McGregor’s absence. The USA international, who joined the club in 2021, has embraced the responsibility of captaining the side when required.
“I've enjoyed it,” he told Celtic TV on Thursday. “I've done it a few times last season as well and even the season before that, but it's a responsibility that I enjoy. It's always good to lead this team out because you know what you're going to get from them (his teammates) and that helps.”
With the fixture schedule now easing, Celtic have the opportunity to focus on recovery and preparation between matches. However, their upcoming opponents, St Johnstone, are in a desperate battle to avoid relegation. Sitting five points behind Dundee in 11th place, Simo Valakari’s side will be fighting for every point.
Carter-Vickers acknowledges the benefits of having additional time to recuperate but remains cautious about the threat posed by their opponents.
“The last few months, it's been back-to-back games, playing every three, four days, which was challenging," he noted.
"I think as a team, we navigated that period pretty well and have come out in the position that we wanted to be in. We know that a team in their (St Johnstone’s) predicament are always going to be scrapping for everything they can and trying to pick up as many points as they can so they can survive.
“So, we're expecting a tough game, and we've got to go there with a mentality that we're going to have to work hard and fight for the three points. Hopefully, we'll get the job done.”
