Challenge on Beram Kayal ‘not as bad as some people claim’ - Lee McCulloch

Rangers midfielder Lee McCulloch insists there was no malice in the tackle that ended Old Firm rival Beram Kayal’s season.

The Celtic midfielder’s fears over the ankle injury sustained in a challenge with his Rangers counterpart during the Glasgow derby at Parkhead on December 28 were confirmed yesterday.

The news, which came after the Israeli had surgery on the cartilage and ligament damage to his ankle, is a massive blow to Celtic manager Neil Lennon as he tries to maintain his team’s lead in the SPL title race.

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McCulloch denied deliberately trying to injure the Israel international and wished him a speedy recovery.

The Ibrox player told the Scottish Sun: “It wasn’t as bad a challenge as some people are trying to make out.

“We were both committed to winning the ball and I think television replays have proved that.

“I have never gone out to purposely injure a fellow professional and I never will.

“We both went for the ball and unfortunately for Beram he picked up this injury.

“My thoughts are with him and I am sure he will come back stronger for it. I sincerely wish him all the best.”

McCulloch came in for criticism from Celtic fans in the wake of Kayal’s injury but last week Celtic manager Neil Lennon cleared the 33-year-old of blame.

McCulloch added: “Some of the things being said are over the top.

“To suggest it was intentional is ridiculous.

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“I was delighted to see Neil Lennon say it was a committed tackle between two players.

“He has played the game and knows what can happen during it.

“I have to thank Neil for what he said as some people are determined to make more of the issue.”

Kayal, 23, vowed to come back stronger - and sooner than expected.

He told the Daily Record: “The doctor and the specialist met with me and told me it went well.

“In the past I have returned stronger than before and I believe this will happen now too.

“I can’t wait to start the rehabilitation process and to get back playing quicker than people think I will be back.”

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