Dedryk Boyata has given his manager a timely boost as Celtic’s Champions League campaign gets set to start next month.

The defender, who has been out since the start of the season is back in training after a lengthy period on the treatment table.

In his absence, Celtic have had to field an inexperienced Ajer as well as midfielder Nir Bitton in his position as Celtic went about qualifying for the group stages.

They did well in his absence, but Astana away was a stark reminder, the manager can’t rely on that formula for PSG and Bayern.

The defender played a big part in the second half Celtic’s invincible season, his career rehabilitated under Brendan Rodgers’ tutelage.

The manager prefers Dedryk in the heart of defence with Jozo above Erik Sviatchenko and will welcome his imminent return to fitness.

He has had no pre season, so it will be a while yet before the defender is fully fit and raring to go.