Celtic are stepping up efforts to reintegrate winger Jota into first-team action sooner than initially anticipated, with a behind-closed-doors fixture arranged for the international break to test his fitness following a long-term layoff.
Elsewhere in Glasgow, the managerial speculation surrounding Parkhead refuses to subside. Stenhousemuir boss Marvin Bartley, a former Bournemouth player under Eddie Howe, insists the door remains open for the Newcastle United manager to potentially take the Celtic reins.
On the international front, Scotland midfielder Scott McTominay has resumed solo training with Napoli after undergoing a heart procedure, marking a positive step in his recovery. Meanwhile, former striker Kris Boyd believes Oli McBurnie is certain to lead the line for new manager Sébastien Pocognoli in Saturday’s clash with Slovenia.
At St Johnstone, manager Simo Valakari reports that summer signing Unax Alvarez is nearing a competitive debut after an injury-hit start to his career in Perth. Celtic’s Camilo Duran faces a anxious wait for his Colombia debut, however, as paperwork delays threaten to prevent his entry into the United States for international duty.
In the Premier League, former Hibernian head coach Jack Ross has been appointed assistant sporting director at Newcastle United. Looking back, former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart has revealed he turned down a move to Celtic earlier in his career to secure a second spell at Heart of Midlothian.
Finally, reported Celtic and Rangers target Fares Ghedjemis may remain in Italy, with the 24-year-old winger reportedly close to agreeing a new contract with Frosinone.
