The images coming out of Celtic training at Lennoxtown on Friday were promising with two key players involved in group action.
Reo Hatate, who has been injured for most of the season with various issues, was seen participating in full squad sessions.
The Japanese midfielder picked up his latest problem on international duty at the Asian Cup earlier this year and has always been earmarked for a full return following the upcoming break from domestic matches. Rodgers’ timeline on that is proving to be correct.
Celtic won’t want to rush Hatate back too quickly but he should get some match minutes before putting himself into contention for the derby away to Rangers at Ibrox next month.
If he isn’t seen off the bench against St Johnstone tomorrow then the trip to Livingston looks to be the most likely venue for his return.
Cameron Carter-Vickers set for Celtic return
Also involved in full group sessions today was Cameron Carter-Vickers. He had an injury scare last weekend after feeling an issue in training which ruled him out of the Scottish Cup victory over Livingston.
It’s much more likely that Carter-Vickers is involved this weekend compared to Hatate. He should be able to slot back into the defence alongside Liam Scales or Stephen Welsh.
The Bhoys defence is much improved with the USA international involved. He’s also one of the big leaders within the Celtic squad and takes the armband with Callum McGregor out.
Having his influence back on the pitch will be key to securing a result in a big match against St Johnstone. Victory would put renewed pressure on Rangers at the top of the table, who don’t play until Sunday afternoon.
Celtic need their best players available for this title run-in. Hopefully Carter-Vickers and Hatate can both play big roles between now and the end of the campaign.