Celtic take on Livingston this weekend and will have a chance to ensure they arrive into Glasgow Derby week with a lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership.
The Bhoys hold a one-point advantage at the summit; however, they could travel to West Lothian two points behind if Rangers were to defeat Hibernian the previous day.
Either way, Brendan Rodgers will hope to call on the services of Callum McGregor, Reo Hatate and Liam Scales for our clash against David Martindale’s outfit as we await confirmation of their injury status in his press conference later this week.
Luis Palma is set to miss out as he recovers from muscular discomfort in his right leg; meanwhile, it is unclear if Maik Nawrocki will be cleared following his latest instance of problematic fitness.
On a positive note, Hyunjun Yang has served his two-match suspension and will be able to make his comeback, though he may find it tough to unseat Nicolas Kuhn amid the latter’s recent contribution.
Yang has taken time to settle in Glasgow, registering one goal and three assists in 27 appearances in all competitions [Transfermarkt].
Nevertheless, the South Korea international started to show consistency before his ban kicked in and will be determined to prove his worth in the final moments of the season.
Brendan Rodgers issues glowing review of Celtic’s Hyunjun Yang
Arriving for £2 million from Gangwon FC last summer, Yang is slowly starting to deliver on the promise he clearly possesses, and there is excitement over where his career trajectory could travel at Parkhead [Sky Sports].
Granted, his suspension for an unfortunate dismissal against Hearts was an unwelcome setback; however, Rodgers has noticed incremental improvements from the 21-year-old in training as he continues to grow in status at Celtic.
Rodgers stated [Cited via The Daily Record]: “I can see his progress. He did great against Dundee, and he has been progressing every day in training.
“We spoke to him (following his dismissal vs Hearts). It wasn’t his fault, it was unfortunate, and sadly, he has missed a couple of games.
He later added: “He has been working on his overall game, his understanding out on the field. His analysis behind the scenes. Getting his upper body strength because it’s a physical game here and in Europe.
“Whatever league you are in in Britain, it’s a physically demanding league. He has just grown throughout the season, and it’s so good to see.”
Hyunjun Yang will only get better for Celtic
Conceivably, it must be hard for a new player arriving from the other side of the world to adapt to so many new facets in life, not least the pressure of having to win every week associated with Celtic.
Despite this, the Busan-born winger has grown in confidence as the season has progressed, which can only bode well for his long-term future at Parkhead.
Suddenly, Rodgers appears to have several quality contributors on either flank, offering some variety during the title race as we pursue a domestic double.