Kennedy's injury not as bad as suspected

Celtic defender John Kennedy has received welcome news that his injury is not as bad as first feared.

The Scotland international was stretchered off during the 2-1 friendly defeat by Romania on March 31 after a challenge from Wolves forward Vio Ganea. But an exploratory operation has revealed the damage has only affected the cruciate ligament rather than a ruptured medial ligament.

Kennedy will still be out for a year but his recovery will not involve any major complications. 

His agent Paul Cherry said: "I spoke to John on the phone yesterday and his spirits are much higher. He's pleased the damage is not as bad as first feared. Only the cruciate needs to be repaired and his injury is the same as the one that Alessandro del Piero of Juventus suffered a few years ago."

The Italian made a full recovery and it's comforting that Dr Steadman performed his operation plus surgery on Alan Shearer and Ronaldo. "It's still serious and John faces a long road back to fitness but it's nice for him to get some good news at last."

Kennedy has been inundated with cards from well-wishers but one in particular was appreciated by the youngster. Cherry said: "The fax from (Rangers manager) Alex McLeish wishing him luck was a fantastic gesture."

Filed by Barry J Whyte