Stephen Welsh will require surgery on his latest injury, it has been confirmed.

Brendan Rodgers revealed the defender will be out of action for around three or four months.

The 23-year-old took a knock in training on Friday fresh after signing a new four-year contract at his boyhood club.

He was due to start against Kilmarnock yesterday in the Viaplay Cup, but new boy Gustaf Lagerbielke took his place in the starting line-up alongside Maik Nawrocki. 

Prior to the 1-0 loss yesterday, Rodgers said that Welsh's injury was a big blow.

He said: "We need to get Cam (Carter-Vickers) back fit. I always think if you can get four centre-backs and some younger players in your system that's good. Plus, we've got some players that are adaptable like Iwata who can go back there. 

"It's just really unfortunate for Stephen. Right at the end of training, he landed awkwardly and he ruptured the ligaments in his ankle which will mean he needs an operation.

"That'll put him out for around three to four months, which is a real shame for him because he played really well when he came on against Aberdeen and he would've started today (Sunday)."

READ MORE: Ex-Celtic ace Jota latest as manager drops transfer hint

Meanwhile, former Celtic winger Jota is reportedly set to leave Al-Ittihad just one month after his £25million transfer to the Saudi club.

The 24-year-old left Celtic in the summer to make the money-spinning move to the Middle East but speculation quickly mounted over a quickfire exit.

Jota has played six times for his new club since his transfer switch but the half of his appearances have come from the bench.

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