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Martin O’Neill explains why Jota hasn’t been selected in Celtic’s matchday squad vs Falkirk

It has been a long road to recovery for Celtic winger Jota, who spent over 12 months on the sidelines because of a knee injury.…

Published: Sunday, 1 November 2026 at 1:45 PM
Martin O’Neill explains why Jota hasn’t been selected in Celtic’s matchday squad vs Falkirk
Key Things to Know
  • Martin O'Neill left Jota out against Falkirk to avoid risking him on the stadium's synthetic plastic pitch.
  • Jota is not injured but continues to manage his recovery following a year-long absence from a knee issue.
  • Callum Osmand started on the left flank in Jota's absence, while Sebastian Tounekti rejoined the squad.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill revealed that winger Jota was left out of the matchday squad against Falkirk due to Falkirk's plastic pitch. Jota, who recently returned from a 12-month absence following a serious knee injury, was omitted to avoid unnecessary risk on the synthetic playing surface. In his place, Callum Osmand started on the left wing, and Sebastian Tounekti returned to the squad.

O'Neill clarified that Jota is fully healthy and simply building up fitness after four recent substitute appearances totaling 132 minutes. The decision comes ahead of an important Europa League clash with Besiktas and a domestic fixture against Kilmarnock before the international break.

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