Celtic striker Albian Ajeti could be in contention for the first Old Firm derby later this month after manager Neil Lennon confirmed that the Swiss international is scheduled to return to training within the next week.

The 23-year-old injured his hamstring when scoring in the 3-0 win over Hibernian. He has so far missed the Europa League tie against FK Sarajevo and the 2-0 victory versus St Johnstone but Lennon feels the forward is close to making his comeback:

“Albian is feeling good. I spoke to him Tuesday morning when he came in to do some running and I hope he’ll join us again for training at the end of this week or the start of next week.”

Celtic face Rangers at home on Saturday week so Ajeti could well have a full seven days of training leading into the top of the table clash. Fans will be delighted if the striker can make it back in time for the game at Celtic Park due to the threat he poses to opposition defences.

Since joining the Hoops from West Ham for £5m in August, the Swiss star has scored an impressive five goals in nine appearances.