Celtic injury headlines as Cameron Carter Vickers 'missing' but Abada and Hatate returns are not empty gestures

Star Celtic pair Reo Hatate and Liel Abada appear primed to feature in the squad to take on Rangers but Cameron Carter-Vickers appears a long shot for Saturday's showdown.

The returning duo – both sidelined with muscle complaints – have been absent for significant periods of the season but both were going at full pelt at Lennoxtown during the open access section of the session. Abada was captured dribbling at maximum speed with the ball at his feet as he steps up his comeback. But Sky Sports had gloomier news regarding the USA international who was a Celtic no show in front of the cameras.

Carter-Vickers trudged down the tunnel at Dens Park with boss Brendan Rodgers retaining a degree of optimism over the potential of his star defender making a quick return. But it appears he is now facing an uphill battle to be in the mix to feature against Philippe Clement's side. And that opens the door for Stephen Welsh to partner Liam Scales with the former Scotland U21 coming off the bench against Dundee with both impressing against Feynoord when partnered together.

The returns of Abada and Hatate are significant for Rodgers with both aiming to take their place in the squad and potentially feature in a game which could have serious ramifications over the destination of the Scottish Premiership title come May. Hatate offers Rodgers the chance to switch up his midfield in the second half and Abada, if fit, can provide a jolt against the team he has scored three times against before in front of his home supporters.

Celtic boss Rodgers cut a relaxed figure during the session as he ran the rule over the players who will be available for the season-defining showdown.