Celtic caretaker coach Martin O’Neill has delivered an update on the fitness of Kelechi Iheanacho ahead of Saturday’s Scottish Premiership clash with St Mirren.

The Nigerian forward has been sidelined since sustaining a hamstring injury during Celtic's 2-1 UEFA Europa League victory over SK Sturm Graz in October.

Iheanacho, who joined the Scottish champions on a free transfer, had made an immediate impact before his setback.

In eight appearances across all competitions, the former Manchester City striker recorded three goals and one assist, quickly becoming an important figure in Celtic’s attacking setup. 

Speaking on Friday, O’Neill confirmed that although progress has been made in the player’s recovery, the weekend fixture will come too soon.

“Kelechi Iheanacho has done some work, but wouldn't be ready for this (the St Mirren game),” he said, as quoted by Herald Scotland, indicating that the forward remains in the rehabilitation phase of his recovery programme.

Celtic continue to navigate a congested run of fixtures both domestically and in Europe, and Iheanacho’s return is expected to provide a timely boost once fully fit.

For now, O’Neill is set to rely on the squad’s available attacking options as the champions aim to maintain momentum in the league.

Iheanacho’s condition will continue to be monitored in the coming days, with the club hopeful he can resume full training soon as Celtic push forward in their title defence and European campaign.

Wale Adejumo