Hearts v Celtic – It’s a great chance for Dane Murray, says James Forrest | OneFootball

James Forrest joined Callum McGregor and Anthony Ralston at Barrowfield on Friday afternoon to support the launch of the club’s community training programme…

The Celtic legend has seen it all in the game, and certainly has had his fair share of injuries over the years and appreciates what the three player who were injured on Wednesday night against the Austrian Champions SK Sturm Graz on Thursday night under the lights at Paradise.

Cameron Carter-Vickers of Celtic on the ground with suspected injury at full-time. Final score Celtic 2 Sturm Graz 1. Celtic v Sturm Graz, UEFA Europa League, Group Stage, Celtic Park, 23 October 2025. Photo Stuart Wallace IMAGO/Shutterstock

“Everybody knows the worst part of football is getting injured and obviously it’s a long-term injury as well,” James Forrest said as he reflected on the news that Cameron Carter-Vickers would miss up to five months football due to an Achilles injury sustained in the game.

“All the lads will be right behind him the full time he’s out, but he’s a real strong character. There is no doubt he’ll come back and he’ll come back strong,” Jamesy said, as reported by Glasgow Times.

“It’s a shame. Everyone rates him so highly. He’s quiet, but he’s a hard worker. He just goes about his business. But his quality on the pitch is obviously unreal. You just have to look at what he’s done for Celtic since he’s been here. Everyone will be desperate for him to have a speedy recovery.

Alistair Johnston of Celtic looks dejected during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between Celtic FC and SK Sturm Graz at Celtic Park on October 23, 2025. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

“Alistair is a similar character to Carter-Vickers. Since he’s come into Celtic he’s been unbelievable. Every time he plays he gives the team so much. So obviously we’re disappointed for him. Hopefully it’s not too long before he’s back as well.”

“We have got a big squad. Sometimes we’ve got five or six players that are not in a matchday squad. The manager’s got players there. Dane Murray has showed what he can do when he’s played and Auston Trusty is back now as well. Hopefully they do well when they get their chance.

Dane Murray of Celtic Ajax v Celtic, Como Cup Pre Season Football, Football, Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia, Como, Italy – 24 Jul 2025Como Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia Italy. Photo IMAGO/ Shutterstock

“I definitely think guys can take advantage of these injuries and stake a claim for a regular start. This is part of football as well. The boys who got injured will be wanting these guys to step in to do well too.

“It’s a great chance for Dane to get a run in the team. He’s been in and out since he’s made his debut. He’s a real hard worker, so it’ll be good for him to get games under his belt and show what he’s all about.”

“Every time I’ve played at Tynecastle, no matter if Hearts are top of the league or not, has had a great atmosphere,” Forrest said. “The Celtic fans will be there and the Hearts crowd is always quite intense. It will be a great occasion.

James Forrest at Rugby Park, Kilmarnock v Celtic, 14 September 2025. Photo Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)

“The injuries are not an excuse you look at. I think every team, every manager, will have problems throughout the season. It’s just unlucky for us. Every game is massive for Celtic, but we know it’s on the line on Sunday as well. We’re just going to need to work hard and get through this tough period.”

James Forrest starts on the bench for Celtic today at Tynecastle and that super-sub role looks like being the way he’s going to see out his time wearing the Hoops.