Chris Sutton gives a thrilling evaluation of Celtic before the crucial championship match.

Celtic’s injury woes this season have been extensive.

Although there has been valid criticism of transfer activity, player performance, and Brendan Rodgers’ work since returning to the club, it is undeniable that injuries and fitness have played a significant role in the season’s outcome.

However, the skies are clearing on that front, and former striker Chris Sutton believes Rodgers is close to putting his best eleven on the pitch – just in time for the league and cup double push.

The Bhoys have a maximum of ten games remaining this season. That includes eight Scottish Premiership games, as well as a semi-final and a potential final in the Scottish Cup.

Despite all of the talk and issues this season, Celtic can still complete the double. Can the returning players propel them to glory?

Chris Sutton on Celtic Returns

Sutton believes it is possible, writing in the Daily Record [23/03 print edition]: “Keep Kyogo on form, keep Cameron Carter-Vickers fit and add that midfield trio [of Hatate, McGregor and O’Riley] and Rodgers could go into the final two months with as powerful a selection hand as he’s held all term.

“Potentially, if Celtic can get through the Scottish Cup semi-final against Aberdeen, there are 10 games left in their season. Every single one of them promises to be massive and it is going to take big game players.

“Having them all his disposal through until the end of May would be perfect timing for him. The equation is pretty simple for Celtic. Win all 10 of those remaining games starting at Livingston next weekend and the Premiership and Scottish Cup double is theirs.

“It’s a big period and it calls for stars who can make it happen. Hatate and McGregor are two who can shine more than any in the country.”

Hatate accelerated his recovery from injury by playing for a half in a recent bounce game at Lennoxtown, which bodes well for his return after the international break.

He could play for Livingston before returning to Ibrox to face Rangers.

McGregor is also expected to return shortly after the current break, though his return date is a little more uncertain at this time.

If Celtic can truly put these injury issues behind them at this critical point in the season, a ten-game winning streak is not out of the question. That’s something to be excited about.

In other news, Three players who are in the running for Celtic’s Player of the Year