Celtic Boss set to welcome star forward after injury recovery ahead of crunch tie

Celtic have been handed a timely boost ahead of their Saturday night clash with Hearts, as striker Adam Idah has returned to training following an injury that saw him withdraw from international duty with Ireland.

The forward was pictured in training back in action on Thursday, suggesting he could be fit and available for selection at Tynecastle.

The unusual kick-off time adds an extra layer of intrigue to the encounter as the Hoops aim to maintain their unbeaten Premiership run.

 Idah’s availability provides manager Brendan Rodgers with another attacking option, although it remains to be seen whether he will start ahead of Kyogo Furuhashi, who has been leading the line.

Idah’s recent injury woes have been well-documented. He suffered a nasty tackle from Liam Gordon during Celtic’s victory at Fir Park and endured further discomfort at Rugby Park, where he required prolonged treatment for a bloodied nose. 

Despite these setbacks, his return to fitness offers a welcome boost as Celtic navigate a congested fixture schedule.

Idah’s physical presence and fresh legs could prove valuable against a Hearts side known for their combative approach.

Kyogo has travelled to and from Japan in recent days, yet only played minimal minutes, so he shouldn’t be too burnt out.

Celtic fave Hearts this weekend, with the Hoops having mirrored their impressive league form across all competitions this season, securing a spot in the Scottish League Cup final with wins over Hibernian, Falkirk, and Aberdeen, while also performing strongly in the Champions League with two wins, one draw, and just one loss.

That defeat came in their 10th outing of the season, a humiliating 7-1 loss to Borussia Dortmund, but Rodgers’s side have responded impressively, going unbeaten in their eight matches since with six wins and two draws, leaving that as their only loss of the campaign so 

Heading into this one on the back of five consecutive wins across all competitions, including a remarkable 6-0 win against Aberdeen and 3-1 victory against RB Leipzig, Celtic will look to continue that streak and unbeaten start to the campaign with another win here.

The Bhoys will undoubtedly be the favourites heading into the match, with the hosts having secured nine points from their opening 13 league fixtures, with two wins, three draws, and eight defeats.