Celtic take on Motherwell this afternoon with a spring in their step.
That is because Brendan Rodgers has offered a positive fitness update on a key duo ahead of the 3pm Boxing Day kick-off.
The Hoops have had to contend with one or two injury issues this campaign so far with the likes of Cameron Carter-Vickers struggling with different problems.
The American missed last weekend’s clash with Dundee United as Rodgers made four changes to his side.
But now the 26-year-old has been confirmed by the manager as being back in contention and he could play from the start against the Steelmen at Parkhead.
Another who could make a return after also sitting out at Tannadice is CCV’s defensive partner, Auston Trusty.
The US international was rested against the Tangerines but could be given the nod at home with both Liam Scales and Stephen Welsh set for another spell on the bench.
Rodgers was full of praise for Welsh vs Dundee United and captain Callum McGregor also lauded his teammate having watched him come in from the cold to help keep a clean sheet.
Cameron Carter-Vickers and Auston Trusty are available
But with Carter-Vickers now returning, the manager explained how rotation will be part of his plans for the rest of the campaign because the matches are coming thick and fast.
“We have to recover quickly between games now,” Rodgers said.
“Cameron Carter-Vickers and Auston Trusty should be back. They did some work on the bike on Sunday, and all being well, they should be available.
“We have so many games, and we will need everyone available.”
Nicolas Kuhn is injured and should miss Celtic vs Motherwell
While Celts will have their defenders back for today’s fixture, they could still be without right-back Alistair Johnston who was another player left out for Anthony Ralston at Tannadice.
And it is likely Nicolas Kuhn will also not be available.
Rodgers set alarm bells ringing earlier this week when he revealed he “doesn’t know” when the German winger might be back.
That came after he felt a twinge in his knee.
