Cameron Carter-Vickers is in line to make his first appearance of pre-season tonight after being named among the substitutes for Celtic’s clash with Ajax in the Como Cup semi-final.

The central defender has yet to feature in any of the club’s five friendlies this summer, having reportedly undergone a minor knee procedure during the off-season. However, the American international has rejoined full training and is now closing in on full fitness.

After weeks on the sidelines, Carter-Vickers could now be handed a run-out this evening as Brendan Rodgers looks to get minutes into his legs ahead of the new campaign.

The coaching staff are expected to ease him back into action with next Sunday’s Premiership opener against St Mirren on the horizon at Celtic Park.

The 27-year-old has been a mainstay at the back under Rodgers and his return will be a welcome boost as Celtic look to build defensive stability going into competitive matches. With several options still unavailable or building fitness, having Carter-Vickers back in the squad strengthens Celtic’s hand at a crucial time.

Rodgers has rotated his backline heavily throughout pre-season, giving minutes to Dane Murray, Liam Scales, and Auston Trusty among others. But the return of Carter-Vickers, one of Celtic’s most reliable performers, offers a timely lift as preparations ramp up.

While it’s unclear how long he’ll feature against Ajax, any involvement will be seen as a step in the right direction as he continues his recovery.

With the serious business just around the corner, Celtic will be keen to have their key men firing on all cylinders, and Carter-Vickers is firmly on track to be part of that.