Maloney set for surgery

Celtic striker Shaun Maloney will be out for up to a month after being given the green light for surgery on a hernia problem by manager Gordon Strachan.

The Scotland international has barely featured in pre-season due to a groin injury.

Now the 23-year-old is facing a race against time to be fit for the opening Champions League group game in mid-September.

Strachan said: “I would think it will be three to four weeks before Shaun plays again. He had struggled all through pre-season. It has been bothering him so we have decided he would be as well to have the operation now as he would have to get it done eventually.

“But things are still going well for him. This is just a blip. Bobo Balde should be out for four weeks. I would have liked to have had him in pre-season, but it was not to be. The physios say it will be four weeks.”

Strachan and his team are in Japan for the friendly against Yokohama F Marinos later today.

The Hoops’ pre-season preparations have been questioned with trips to Poland, United States and now the Far East.

But the Celtic boss insists it is part and parcel of life with the Glasgow giants.

Strachan added: “We have had a very hectic schedule, but that comes with the territory. If you want an easy life, then you should no play for Celtic. You should go to a more inferior team. It is not every football club which gets invited to America and Japan and plays in Europe.

“Some will never get the chance to go to those places. And, if you do not fancy that, then do not join Celtic.

“Today, a modern footballer has to get used to travelling all over the world and the stresses and the strains – both mentally and physically – that that can bring. This is a test for our players.

“We have really looked forward to this trip to Japan. It is a chance to see a different culture and enjoy a wonderful experience.”