Boyata returns to training and could feature against Hibs

Belgian defender Dedryck Boyata has returned to training and is in contention to face Hibs on Wednesday night.

The Evening Times reports that the Celtic defender could make his long-awaited return to action this week.

Boyata has not featured for Celtic since their Scottish Cup win over Airdrieonians last month.

The player’s return will come as a timely boost for Celtic, who have seen their injury list grow and grow in recent weeks.

Rodgers may look to bring Boyata back into the fold slowly and avoid starting him on Wednesday night, but that does mean he is almost certain to feature against Valencia in the Europa League.

With second place Rangers facing a tricky game away to Aberdeen, Celtic will be eager to take their chance and extend their lead at the top.

Should Aberdeen and Celtic both win on Wednesday night, the Hoops would go eight points clear of the former.