Celtic return to competitive action today as they welcome St Mirren to Celtic Park for their Scottish Premiership curtain-raiser. Kick-off is set for 4:30pm, live on Sky Sports, as the champions look to start their title defence in style.

It’s Flag Day in the east end of Glasgow. After coasting to four titles in a row last season, Brendan Rodgers’ side will unfurl the league flag before the match in front of a full house. It’s a tradition that never gets old — a celebration of dominance and a statement of intent.

But as the season begins, there’s an edge to the optimism. While the feel-good factor of a new campaign is always welcome, there’s no ignoring the current state of the squad. Celtic have been slow out the blocks in the transfer market this summer, and the lack of depth up front is a glaring concern.

Injuries and a shortage of quality options in key areas have left the side vulnerable — something that must be addressed before the window closes at the end of August. Until then, there’s a hope that those gaps don’t cost us points in these early fixtures.

The excitement is real, though. This is the part fans love — the return to Paradise, the buzz in the stands, the first look at the team in full competitive flow. Yes, the frustrations are there, the summer grumbles are familiar, but today, for ninety minutes, the noise fades. It’s about football again.

There’s also the small matter of a potential early advantage over Rangers. After their shock draw with Motherwell at Fir Park on Saturday, Celtic could go two points clear with a win. It’s early days, but every point matters in a title race where margins are often razor-thin.

Rodgers and his men know what’s at stake. A strong performance and three points today would not only settle nerves but set the tone for the campaign ahead.

We have a second Kieran Tierney debut, Benji Nygren to make his competitive bow, along with the usual cast and perhaps a sprinkling of the new Japanese bhoys from the bench, as well as Callum Osmand.

Let the season begin — and let’s hope Celtic come flying out the traps.