Neil Lennon has expressed his frustration at the impact the international break has had on his squad after losing at least three players ahead of the first derby of the season.
He understands the need for the fixtures to take place and that his clubs’ hands are tied, however, this doesn’t make it any easier to take for the gaffer, with every day a waiting process until they return to Lennoxtown, as reported by The Scottish Sun:
“We’ve had some guys ruled out now and then you’re sitting at home biting your nails hoping that nothing else happens.
“Not only with the Covid situation but with the chance of a player picking up a physical injury.
“That’s always on the back of your mind, too.
“Even if we could, though, you never really want to stop a player from playing for his country because it means so much to them.
“From a personal point of view, doing so is among players’ main targets growing up and even as they progress through their club careers.
“It’s difficult for UEFA, it’s difficult for the clubs because of the concertina impact it’s going to have on the season and this is all new to everyone.”
Thankfully, we shouldn’t be without too many first XI players but the squad will be considerably weaker overall, Ryan Christie’s absence is the obvious one, however, in Olivier Ntcham we have a more than capable deputy.
Has the club done enough during the international break?
Yes
No
Calling for players to boycott the international fixtures or for the club to act is nothing more than bluster or venting at the obvious frustration having players missing through no fault of their own or the club’s.
With one more to go in November, Lennon will be hoping to avoid a similar situation that has seen every night become a sleepless one.