Benkovic suggests he is ready with return from injury imminent

Celtic defender Filip Benkovic claims he is ready for the title run-in, after having missed the last few months with injury.

The Croatian centre-back hasn’t played since the Hoops’ 3-0 win over Hamilton on January 26, and the 21-year has suggested that a return to action is imminent.

While initial concerns were that Benkovic could miss the rest of the season, the defender could now be fit to play against Dundee on Sunday – although it’s more likely than he will return against Rangers later this month.

As reported by Football Scotland, speaking to Croatian media, Benkovic said:

My situation? The injury is almost behind me. I want to play as many games as possible by the end of the season.

The news will be music to Neil Lennon’s ears, with Celtic have suffered a severe depletion of centre-back options in recent months.

However, Benkovic will now face strong competition from Kristoffer Ajer to partner Dedryck Boyata in the heart of defence, with Ajer having performed well in Benkovic’ absence, while also being someone whose future Celtic will be more invested in.