James Forrest has confirmed his fitness status after making his long-awaited return to the Celtic first team, coming off the bench against Hearts on Saturday. It was his first appearance since December, when he last featured in the Premier Sports Cup final penalty win over Rangers.
Forrest said: (Celtic TV), “Training has been really good. That’s me been training for like maybe two and a half weeks, three weeks now and I’ve been really enjoying it, especially as I think anyone knows when they’re out for a length of time all they want to do is get back out there on the pitch with the boys and I’ve been really enjoying it.”
Forrest’s experience and professionalism have been vital to Celtic over the last 16 years, and his determination to regain full fitness time and time again is evident. The Hoops wingers, who has won countless honours with the club, knows all too well the ups and downs of football, but he remains focused on making the most of the games ahead.
He said: “You get setbacks throughout your career, but I think it makes it even better when you get back and when you start playing, you don’t take things for granted.
“I think when you get that type of injury and I’m a bit older as well, I think you’ve got to have the determination and work hard to get back.
“I just want to keep looking forward to every day and just keep working hard and hopefully play more games towards the end of the season.”
With the Scottish Premiership still to be wrapped up despite Celtic being 13 points clear of Rangers, and with the Hoops in the Scottish Cup semi-final, Forrest’s return could be crucial in the closing months of the campaign, just as it was last season. His experience in high-pressure moments and ability to deliver when it matters most make him a valuable player to return from injury.
