Alistair Johnston has returned to Celtic training after a hamstring injury sidelined him since October. Manager Martin O'Neill expressed encouragement after Johnston joined team-mates at Lennoxtown. Meanwhile, Mexico international Julian Araujo faces a potential season-ending setback with a recurring thigh injury, raising doubts about whether he has played his last game for the Scottish champions.

Celtic's injury concerns mount as right-back Colby Donovan will miss Saturday's match with a hamstring issue. The Hoops received welcome news with the return of the Green Brigade ultras, whose five-month ban was lifted after meeting safety conditions. O'Neill acknowledged the vocal support boost, coming as Celtic chase Hearts and Rangers in the tight title race.

Hearts lead the Scottish Premiership with 67 points, one ahead of Rangers and three clear of reigning champions Celtic. O'Neill admitted he would prefer Hearts' position with games running out. "I genuinely wouldn't know" how the title race will unfold, with crucial fixtures including Celtic vs Rangers on May 10 potentially deciding the championship.