Celtic goalkeeper Schmeichel worries shoulder problem might finish his playing days

Kasper Schmeichel has admitted that a serious shoulder issue might bring his career to a close.

The Celtic shot stopper has continued to feature despite the discomfort after damaging his left shoulder in a game for Denmark last year. He worsened the problem during the match against Stuttgart a month ago.

The 39 year old has sat out the past five fixtures for the Scottish title holders at Celtic. He got a worrying assessment from an expert on Monday.

In an interview with CBS Sports Golazo Network Schmeichel explained: "I will require two operations to repair my shoulder.

"It feels like a heavy setback. I have damaged the bicep and the rotator cuff with a dislocation and a tear in the labrum. Basically all the components are affected. Recovery will likely take 10 to 12 months."

He continued: "It is tough to process this news. There is a chance I might have played my final match. Football has been my life from childhood. The idea of it ending is heartbreaking. I am struggling to come to terms with it right now."

Schmeichel is the offspring of the legendary goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel who starred in many of Alex Fergusons triumphant Manchester United sides.

Kasper was in goal for Leicester during their remarkable 2016 Premier League victory one of the biggest shocks in English football history. He also guarded the net when the club claimed the FA Cup in 2021.

After that he had stints at Nice and Anderlecht prior to signing with the big Scottish club Celtic for the 2024/25 campaign.

His first procedure is scheduled for Friday. Despite the long road ahead in recovery Schmeichel is resolute about saving his professional life.

"I am thinking I will put in maximum effort to see if returning is possible" he stated.

"Coming back from something this severe would rank as one of the biggest achievements in my career. I plan to battle hard and exhaust every option."