Nir Bitton granted early Celtic return with Israel 'agreement' in place ahead of Rangers showdown

Nir Bitton will return to Celtic from international duty and prepare for next Sunday’s huge Premiership battle with Rangers.

The midfielder played 90 minutes for Israel in a 2-0 friendly defeat to Germany on Saturday night and looked destined to play Romania on Tuesday night.

But Israelite reports from Walla Sport state that Bitton will be allowed to head back to Scotland in anticipation of a huge match with big ramifications for their title race.

It is believed that this was always the plan for him over this international break.

Bitton has been used regularly by manager Ange Postecoglou this season and has made 35 appearances so far.

Liel Abada is also on Israel duty but he is with the U21s side and they take on Germany's youth squad this Tuesday.

Celtic are three points clear of Rangers ahead of next Sunday's match with Rangers and victory could take them six points clear to reclaiming the title with seven games to go.