If you were after a Leigh Griffiths fitness update, the player himself has been happy to oblige.
The Scotland international has made a storming return to football this summer. After taking leave for several months due to personal issues, Griffiths has been back and flying since Neil Lennon first played him against Pinkafeld nearly two months ago.
He already has eight goals both competitively and in friendly matches. His latest came in the 7-0 destruction of St Johnstone at Celtic Park. But, more than that, Griffiths appears to be in tip-top shape in terms of his energy levels and physique.
But the striker has confirmed to supporters that he’s not quite at 100% just yet. Speaking in the Scottish Sun, Griff had this to say on his progress.
“I feel about 70 to 80 percent fit right now. I still have a bit to go. I’m working with John Currie every day out on the training field.
“It’s about doing my stuff out there and working in the gym. The quicker I do that, the quicker I will get to 100 percent.
“It’s easy coming on in a game like that (vs St Johnstone). The space had opened up and you saw the chances we created in the second half.”
Griffiths’ fitness update is a bit of a surprise
It’s fair to say that Griffiths could’ve fooled us all with his performances since returning to football. Such has been his incredible energy levels and sharpness, you could be mistaken for thinking Griffiths is already at 100%.
The fact that he has even more to come is a frightening thought for the rest of Scottish football. He looks as sharp as ever, and clearly has a determination about him to prove himself once more.
Given Odsonne Edouard currently has the lone striker’s jersey, Griffiths has to keep knuckling down in order to win a place in this team. You can see he wants to give so much back to Celtic, and it’s been a beautiful sight so far.
His fitness levels, however, would also explain why Lennon has been keeping Griff wrapped in cotton wool. The Hoops manager has yet to start Griffiths in back-to-back games this season. His cameo against Saints was further evidence of this, especially after he started in Estonia last week.
But it won’t be long until Griff is back to 100%. When he does, goodness knows just what he’ll be adding in terms of goals and assists. A chance to explore that potentially fruitful partnership with Edouard is also an intriguing aspect.
For now, supporters are still just delighted to see him back and enjoying himself. The fact he’s started back in such convincing fashion, however, has been a massive bonus.
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