Celtic defender Erik Sviatchenko is closing in on a return to action after a spell on the sidelines with a knee injury.

The Dane suffered knee ligament damage back in August and has not featured since, but the defender has admitted he is aiming to return before the new year – with the Hoops still yet to play two Champions League fixtures.

Sviatchenko will return to a Celtic side that remains unbeaten domestically, and are still on course to achieving the Champions League knock-out stages.

Sviatchenko told the official Celtic website: “The international break was convenient because it let me get good sessions and then a bit of rest and keep on looking to the next game.

“I played all six games last season in the Champions League which was an amazing experience.

“We have put ourselves in a good position but the job isn’t done yet and the final two group games are going to be decisive. I really hope I can play a part in them.

“Every day is an improvement. I have been back for nearly two weeks now and just getting my fitness up. It has been a while and I am missing being out on the park.

“But right now the team are doing very well and it is about maintaining that standard. There is a lot of competition in our positions which is a positive because it keeps everyone on edge.”
[Quotes via Sky Sports]