Martin O’Neill has offered one last hope for Celtic’s misfiring attack, confirming that Callum Osmand is closing in on his return from a long-term injury.
During O’Neill’s first stint on his return to Celtic, Osmand suffered a serious hamstring tear in November against FC Midtjylland in the Europa League.
That has kept the versatile attacker sidelined for months, but during the March international break, O’Neill has confirmed that the wait to see Osmand again isn’t far off.
“Callum is doing really well,” said O’Neill. “Hopefully (a return to the pitch) wouldn’t be too far.”
While O’Neill stopped short of giving a definitive timeline, all signs point to the attacker’s comeback being just around the corner.
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Callum Osmand’s return couldn’t come soon enough for Celtic
Osmand’s return cannot come quickly enough. He would provide a massive injection of freshness to a forward line that is currently struggling beyond belief.
Originally arriving as a summer signing from Fulham under Brendan Rodgers, the youngster was never used under the now Al-Qadsiah boss.
This baffling decision perfectly summed up the chaotic mess of the early campaign.
However, in the limited minutes he has actually been allowed to play, Osmand has looked like a real talent and is undoubtedly a player worth looking forward to, not just in these coming weeks, but also next season.
Right now, Celtic’s title hopes are on a knife-edge, as they sit third in the Premiership table behind Rangers and Premiership leaders, Hearts.
The Hoops must win every remaining game to stand a chance at securing a historic 56th title, and if they fall short, they can have absolutely no complaints because this season has been an embarrassment.
Yet, Celtic should still fully back themselves to lift the Scottish Cup, after losing the final on penalties to Aberdeen last season and missing out on a historic Treble.
With a semi-final against League Cup holders St Mirren looming, and a potential final against either overachievers Falkirk or Neil Lennon’s Dunfermline, silverware is well within reach.
Osmand already possesses brilliant memories of Hampden Park following his unforgettable goal against Rangers earlier this season.
Celtic fans will be desperate to see him repeat that magic at the national stadium. Either way, his imminent return to the pitch is exactly the boost this squad needs, as O’Neill told Celtic TV.
“Callum is doing really well,” said O’Neill. “I think he is anxious to go. He has been working exceptionally well, so hopefully that wouldn’t be too far.”
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