Callum McGregor's return to the Celtic team is 'imminent', according to Brendan Rodgers.

The midfielder picked up a knock in training and missed recent matches against Hearts and Livingston earlier this month.

The Achilles and calf issues kept him out of those games, however, he is expected to come straight back into Rodgers' starting line-up in West Lothian this Sunday.

Rumours surfaced online that the Scotland international would be ruled out for the remainder of the season with the injury problem.

However, speaking to the club's own TV channel, the manager moved to dispel that speculation, instead offering a positive update on his impending return.

He said: “With Cameron [Carter-Vickers] now back to fitness and the imminent return of our captain Callum McGregor, and instrumental midfielder Reo Hatate, this could make a big difference."

Rodgers was then asked how important it is to have all his key players back for the title run-in.

”Of course, it's great if they're available," the 51-year-old responded. "Each one is obviously different but when they have that knowhow and experience with how to deal with it [title run-in] then that can be key.

"I think the three players mentioned there are obviously hugely influential players for the team. So, it will be great to have them back and available.”

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He added: “We played Livingston only recently. Attacking-wise, we were very good in the game, but we gave too much away for my liking. So our mentality and focus is to go and play to the level of game that we want to play, but make sure that we don’t give much up in terms of opportunities and space. If we can do that, then we can have a very good day hopefully.

“Obviously with Livingston being at home and on the astroturf pitch, they’ll maybe be more accustomed to that. Whatever team David Martindale puts out, they are normally battling and working very, very hard. We have seen that."