Sutton set for three-game lay-off

Celtic manager Martin O’Neill is expected to confirm unwanted news over striker Chris Sutton later today.

The former Chelsea and Blackburn man sustained a hamstring injury during the 3-1 Bank of Scotland Premier League win at Hibernian on Sunday and is set for a three-game absence.

Sutton, who will be 32 on Thursday, was hurt as he crossed for John Hartson to score the Hoops’ second goal at Easter Road in the 31st minute.

The player, who has been an integral part of O’Neill’s success story at Parkhead since joining the club in July 2000, was replaced by Aiden McGeady.

The SPL champions went on to claim a 3-1 win but the Celtic boss fears Sutton will miss the next three matches against Dunfermline, Inverness Caledonian Thistle and Dundee United.

Sutton underwent a scan yesterday to assess the extent of the problem.

But, while the injury will come as a major blow to the Hoops, the manager is confident his team can adapt to the loss of Sutton.

O’Neill told the club’s official website, www.celticfc.net: “I don’t know what the news is regarding Chris Sutton, but I would imagine that he is unavailable and will be unavailable for the next three games.

“We will have to adjust accordingly.”

Sutton has scored 14 times this season and has proved to be a versatile performer playing in attack, defence and, on occasion, midfield this season.

Celtic’s win in Edinburgh saw the club close the gap on Old Firm rivals Rangers who could only draw at home to Inverness where ex-Celt Bryan Prunty hit a late equaliser for the Highland club.

The Parkhead side are four points behind the Light Blues but have two games in hand.