CELTIC's defensive injury woes have reared their head again - just 20 minutes into the new football year.

Brendan Rodgers took his Hoops squad down the M77 to Ayrshire to take on Ayr United this evening in their first pre-season clash of 2024.

The game was scheduled to mark the opening of the Somerset Park club's new north stand - and offered a chance for Rodgers to reacquaint himself with his former skipper, Scott Brown.

The Celtic legend is in his first full year as Ayr boss, after taking over from Lee Bullen midway through the last campaign.

Rodgers named a mixed side with both experience, youth and fringe players included.

Maik Nawrocki, signed last summer for around £4m, was one of those in the starting XI hoping to impress his manager.

But the Pole lasted just 20 minutes before limping off with an apparent calf injury.

The 23-year-old centre-back started the match alongside Stephen Welsh but was replaced by youngster Lenny Agbaire.

Nawrocki hasn't had his injury troubles to seek since joining the Hoops.

Back in February he was forced off after an hour when deputising for Cameron Carter-Vickers in a game against Motherwell.

He has also been linked with a move away from Celtic Park, with a return to one of his former clubs on loan.

Legia Warsaw were keen on taking him but but the player turned it down as he hopes to cement a place for himself under Rodgers this term.

Upon signing Nawrocki last year, Rodgers said: “It’s another very good signing for us and we’re delighted to have brought Maik to the club.

“He’s a very highly-rated young player and someone who we believe will be a great addition to the squad.

“He’s also a player I am very much aware of, having seen him play for Legia Waraw in the Europa League and I know he was very keen to move to Celtic, so we’re looking forward to working with him.”