Kasper Schmeichel to miss Celtic's Scottish Cup game v Raith Rovers with back issue

Celtic goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel has been ruled out of this weekend’s Scottish Cup game against Raith Rovers.

Brendan Rodgers revealed the Denmark international, who has been an ever-present for the Hoops this season, has had a “little issue” with his back.

However, the manager was quick to reassure fans that they will return to take his place between the sticks when they host Bayern Munich on Wednesday.

Finland international Viljami Sinsialo, who has yet to play in a competitive game since joining from Aston Villa in the summer, will make his debut against Barry Robson’s Championship side on Saturday.

Speaking to the media on Friday, Rodgers said: “Kasper Schmeichel won’t play, so Viljami (Sinisalo) will start in goal.

“Kasper has had a little issue with his back, so he will miss out on this game. But he will be ok for Wednesday.

“We saw in preseason with Vil that he is a good young goalkeeper, he came in and played very well so we are looking forward to him making his competitive debut for us.

“He is a great boy, that is the challenge when you come in here and he knew coming in that he had a really top class goalkeeper to learn from.

“He’s been down in England, played for Aston Villa, been out on loan to a couple of sides and has international experience with Finland.

“He’s a very talented young goalkeeper who has come in here and been patient and he understands his role up to this point.

“It will be nice for him to get this opportunity on Saturday.”