Neil Lennon has revealed that James Forrest isn’t a million miles away from returning to action.
The winger played a couple of matches with a stress fracture of the ankle before going off during the first half of the Europa League qualifier away to Riga on September 24.
After a period of rest surgery was required but it seems that Forest is in the final stages of rehab with Mikey Johnston closing in on a starting place after a few substitute appearances.
?? “It’s a great facility. The training has been very intense. I think the players will get the benefit of it and be ready for the second half of the season.”#CelticFC manager Neil Lennon reflects on another productive winter training camp for the Bhoys in Dubai ??? pic.twitter.com/N3A8Cya1LY
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) January 7, 2021
Asked about having the two wingers closing in on fitness Lennon said:
It’s great, we’ve missed those two this year. They’re two exceptional talents, very individual talents, they can change the dynamic of the way that you play.
Mikey has had a real bad run of injuries and it’s great to see him back and flourishing again. Jamesey is not a million miles away now which is huge since he’s been such a pivotal player for us over the years.
Johnston was in Dubai training with the first team squad but it seems that Forest continued with his recovery at Lennoxtown.
After an absence of 11 months Johnston made his first appearance of the season against Kilmarnock on January 13 then came off the bench in extra time of the Scottish Cup Final against Hearts to score one of the shoot-out penalties.
Celtic return to action at home to Hibs on Monday followed by back-to-back matches against Livingston on January 16 and 20.
? “It would have been something I’d have definitely regretted for the rest of my life if I didn’t take it. To score a penalty in the Scottish Cup final – I’m just buzzing I’ve done it.”
Hear from #CelticFC‘s @mikeyjohnston10 on the final day of the winter training camp ??? pic.twitter.com/fIbXxS8Ypc
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) January 7, 2021
