Celtic have not made a fantastic start to the season. They do hold a lead in the Premiership but have been inconsistent with their performances for the most part. Brendan Rodgers’ side also got knocked out in the second round of the Scottish League Cup, the first domestic competition the Northern Irishman has failed to win at Parkhead. And they are also guaranteed to finish bottom of their Champions League group.

It just feels like this team needs a bit more quality. But at the same time, one cannot ignore the constant injury problems as well.

Several players, who one would consider as regular starters, are currently out on the sidelines and have been there for a while. The good news is, it looks like some are closing in on their return to the pitch.

As reported by Football Insider, Daizen Maeda and Liel Abada are stepping up their recoveries from injury as they prepare to return to action. Both have been missed by Rodgers’ team.

Two important players close to returning for Celtic.

Maeda suffered an injury in the away game against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League. He picked up for the challenge which saw him being shown a red card.

On the other hand, Abada has been out for even longer. He was injured while away on international duty.

Both are key players for Celtic on the wings. Abada is someone who has proven himself to be very effective in the final third and would goals to this side, something that they need. On the other hand, Maeda brings an unmatched workrate up top, something the Hoops have missed a lot since he got injured.

Abada and Maeda returning would be great news for Celtic. One would expect the peformance levels to go up significantly, once they find their rhythm.