Celtic's Stephen Welsh has avoided any serious damage after being stretchered off against St Mirren in midweek.

The defender had fans fearing the worst after a late challenge by Jon Obika forced him off. 

But Herald and Times Sport understands the youngster has suffered some  bruising and his injury is not thought to be long-term. He may even be able to return to full training this week.

READ MORE: Neil Lennon provides Stephen Welsh injury update after the Celtic centre half is stretchered off in St Mirren win

Welsh has established himself as a first-team star at Parkhead this season and was impressive again at the SMISA Stadium before being subbed for Shane Duffy.

The Scotland under-21 international netted his first goal for the club last weekend against Motherwell and continues to build a partnership with Kris Ajer at the heart of the defence.

Welsh, 21, has made nine appearances for the Hoops first-team this season so far.

We told how manager Neil Lennon provided an update in the immediate aftermath of the game on Wednesday and revealed Welsh was not in too much pain at the time.

READ MORE: Mark Hendry: Celtic failed to land centre-half in January but could do worse than academy Bhoy Welsh for run-in

“He got a real heavy knock, a trauma,” he said. “His foot is in a pot at the minute so it is difficult to assess the damage until the physios get a real good look at it.

“We are hoping it is just a bang on the ankle. But we will have to see if there is any damage there. He seemed okay. With the foot in the pot it kind of keeps it stable and he didn’t look to be in any distress.

“He has done very well. We have been very pleased with him and he is a good kid. Hopefully he won’t miss any games. If he does he will be back in the squad as soon as possible because he has earned it.”