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Celtic make Jota return call as winger informed of injury caveat that could leave him ‘frustrated’

The Portuguese star is set to make his comeback a bounce game with Falkirk on Friday

Published: Thursday, 1 October 2026 at 6:19 PM
Celtic make Jota return call as winger informed of injury caveat that could leave him ‘frustrated’
Key Things to Know
  • Jota is set to make his Celtic return from an ACL injury during a friendly against Falkirk on Friday.
  • The 27-year-old winger has spent 18 months out of action after suffering the injury in April 2025.
  • Assistant manager Shaun Maloney indicated Jota was ahead of manager Martin O'Neill's initial Halloween timeline.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Celtic winger Jota is scheduled to make his return to action in a closed-door friendly against Falkirk on Friday. The 27-year-old Portuguese attacker has been sidelined for 18 months after suffering an ACL injury against Dundee United in April 2025, which kept him out for the entire previous campaign.

Despite beating manager Martin O'Neill's initial target of returning around Halloween, former Celtic striker Cillian Sheridan cautioned that Jota might face a frustrating period rediscovering his rhythm. Jota has not yet featured under O'Neill since rejoining the club permanently in January 2025.

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