Nir Bitton admits he feels very sorry for Celtic teammate Erik Sviatchenko

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Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers gave Nir Bitton a game at centre-back, in Erik Sviatchenko’s absence.

Celtic midfielder Nir Bitton has told the Scottish Herald that he feels sorry for Erik Sviatchenko, after the centre-back picked up another injury.

Bitton was forced to play in the heart of Celtic’s defence in Brendan Rodgers’ side’s first league match of the season and he impressed.

Yet the Israeli international insists that he is not rejoicing in the fact he is back in Celtic line-up, as he wishes Sviatchenko was fit.

“Our centre backs have been really unlucky to get injured and I have to play,” Bitton said.

“I feel sorry for Erik because it’s not the best to be injured. I hope they come back soon and stronger.”

Celtic are currently very short of options at centre-back, with Dedryck Boyata also sidelined.

Bitton generally is deployed in a holding midfield role, but looked comfortable in Rodgers’ side’s backline, as Celtic picked up a victory on opening day.

Celtic cruised past Hearts, winning 4-1 and getting their season off to a perfect start.

Whether Bitton will continue at centre-back over the coming weeks remains to be seen.

Celtic are next in action against Kilmarnock tomorrow in the Scottish League Cup.