Celtic's squad trained at Lennoxtown on matchday minus one ahead of Thursday night's must-win Europa League clash with Celta Vigo at Parkhead, with several key players edging closer to full fitness.
Callum Osmand, who marked his first senior start with a brace against Hearts, was in good spirits during the session. The ex-Fulham youngster was denied a hat-trick after being substituted at half-time, a precaution Martin O'Neill later revealed was taken because Osmand had only just returned from a lengthy hamstring injury.
Defensive Returns on the Horizon
Cameron Carter-Vickers, who has been absent since last month's derby defeat, trained away from the main group. O'Neill dismissed rumours the defender had been dropped for questioning his tactics, stating the centre-back was sidelined with a muscle issue. Carter-Vickers is not expected to return until this weekend's visit to Easter Road at the earliest.
Alistair Johnston is also closing in on his comeback after being sidelined since August with long-term hamstring problems. The right-back has endured a frustrating 18 months, with Colby Donovan deputising excellently in his absence.
Attacking Options Strengthen
Camilo Duran was at his sparkling best on Sunday, terrorising Hearts with two assists and a goal. The Colombian, who has played out right for most of his Hoops career, seized his chance through the middle and looks to be the man with the jersey now.
Record signing Kasper Hogh's barren goal drought extended to 10 games after another blank against Hearts, though the £11m striker did claim an assist after coming off the bench for the last half an hour.
New Faces and Coaching Staff
Landon Emenalo made his long-awaited debut on Sunday and caught the eye. The 18-year-old left-back, on loan from Chelsea, arrived at Parkhead last week after recovering from an injury and appears an ideal deputy for Kieran Tierney. However, he will not be available on Thursday after being left out of the club's Europa League squad, nor will Stamford Bridge colleague Shim Mheuka or Jota.
There was no sign of manager Martin O'Neill at Lennoxtown, with Shaun Maloney, Mark Fotheringham and Stephen McManus leading training. O'Neill was due to preview the Parkhead showdown in media duties later on Wednesday.
