Celtic post confirms key man has returned to Lennoxtown ahead of Hibernian trip

Celtic make the trip to face Hibernian tomorrow at Easter Road, knowing they have to react to a disappointing draw away at Aberdeen last week.

Brendan Rodgers’ side could only muster a 1-1 stalemate after falling behind early in the second half, cutting their lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership to just three points.

Permutations elsewhere could leave the Hoops in second position by the time they commence proceedings in Leith, amplifying the need for a victory on the road.

Both Cameron Carter-Vickers and Reo Hatate will miss out due to injury and will be joined by Greg Taylor, who is still suffering the worst of a recent calf strain.

Hyeongyu Oh and Yang Hyun-jun are still on AFC Asian Cup duty with South Korea, where they could reach the final later today if the Taeguek Warriors defeat Jordan in the semi-final.

The Bhoys’ performance levels have plummeted over the last couple of weeks, no doubt, though an extensive absentee list has not helped Rodgers in the slightest.

Daizen Maeda returns to Celtic training at Lennoxtown

Unfortunately for Daizen Maeda, Japan were eliminated from the tournament following a last-minute 2-1 defeat to Iran in the last eight.

Nevertheless, Celtic fans will be pleased to know that the 26-year-old has now returned to Lennoxtown in time for the Hoops’ trip to Edinburgh.

It is unclear at the time of writing whether Maeda will be involved against Nick Montgomery’s side tomorrow night.

Should he be deemed fit to make the cut, there is an argument to say he should be thrown in from the start due to his defensive contribution, which could help to cover Alexandro Bernabei on the left flank.