The USMNT defender aims to regain match fitness ahead of the new season
Category: Sports
Cameron Carter-Vickers is back in training with Celtic after a lengthy recovery from an Achilles injury that sidelined him for most of the 2025/26 season. The 28-year-old American international resumed training on July 6, 2026, at the club's training base in Dublin, marking a hopeful return ahead of Celtic's pre-season campaign.
The defender's injury, sustained in late October 2025, not only kept him off the pitch during a dramatic season for Celtic, which saw the team secure a domestic double under manager Martin O'Neill, but it also cost him a spot on the U.S. Men's National Team for the 2026 World Cup. Carter-Vickers has made an impressive 172 appearances for the Hoops since joining the club permanently from Tottenham in 2022, contributing eight goals during his tenure.
In an exclusive interview with CelticPlayer, Carter-Vickers shared his relief at returning to the squad. "I’m good, and I’m just happy to be back with the team and out here on pre-season," he said. His enthusiasm highlighted the frustration he felt during his time away from the game. "Being out was frustrating, especially a season like last season where it was a battle for us," he added.
The injury initially presented itself as a simple calf cramp, but upon examination, it was revealed to be a rupture in the Achilles tendon. "At that point, you know it’s going to be a long-term injury," Carter-Vickers explained, noting the mental challenges that came with such a setback.
His recovery process was arduous and required immense patience. He spent three weeks in a cast followed by eight weeks in a boot, during which he had to focus on small milestones to maintain his motivation. "For me, it was just about... working toward getting back in the best shape possible. It was all about not getting too ahead of yourself. You’re chasing the small gains and being happy with them," he said.
As he regained movement in his foot, each small achievement became a source of encouragement. "So when I did get a bit of movement back, I took that as a win and I was positive about it. After that, you’re chasing the next thing and the next thing," he recounted.
Now, as he prepares for his first pre-season match against League of Ireland side Shelbourne FC on July 7, 2026, at Tolka Park, Carter-Vickers is focused on regaining his match fitness. "I just want to get back to playing football, really," he stated, expressing eagerness to return to competitive play.
He acknowledged that training during the last weeks of the previous season was light, but he is now eager to embrace the intensity of full pre-season training. "You can do as much running and fitness work as you want individually, but it doesn't compare to playing football, just getting back in the rhythm of that," he noted.
Carter-Vickers' return to fitness comes at a time when Celtic is ramping up preparations for the upcoming season. The 2025/26 campaign was particularly historic for the club, culminating in a dramatic league title and a domestic double under O'Neill's management. The absence of a key player like Carter-Vickers during such a successful season was felt deeply by the squad.
Since joining Celtic, Carter-Vickers has established himself as a central figure in the team's defense. His previous experience in the English Premier League and his substantial contributions to Celtic's success have made him a fan favorite. His return is expected to bolster the team's defensive options significantly as they look to build on last season's triumphs.
With the warm-weather training camp in Portugal on the horizon, the club is eager to integrate Carter-Vickers back into the fold. The training camp will provide an excellent opportunity for him to sharpen his skills and regain match readiness ahead of the new season.
After facing Shelbourne FC, the Celtic squad will travel to Portugal for a warm-weather training camp, which is a staple in their pre-season preparations. This camp is expected to be a key component in getting players like Carter-Vickers fully match fit before the competitive season kicks off.
Carter-Vickers' presence on the pitch will be invaluable for Celtic as they aim to defend their titles and compete on all fronts in the upcoming season. His experience and leadership will benefit the defense and help guide younger players as they adapt to the rigors of professional football.
As he looks forward to the match against Shelbourne, Carter-Vickers remains optimistic about his fitness and readiness to contribute to the team. "It’s been good this last couple of weeks to get back to playing football," he said, signaling his commitment to regaining his form. The match at Tolka Park will be a key test for him as he seeks to shake off the rust and re-establish himself as a mainstay in the Celtic lineup.
With the new season approaching, attention will turn to Carter-Vickers as he steps back onto the pitch, eager to make his mark once again. The match against Shelbourne FC is set for July 7, 2026, at 6 PM, marking a new chapter in the defender's career.