Stephen Welsh has returned to training with Celtic following an injury scare that threatened to derail his summer plans.

The 25-year-old centre-back limped off with a shoulder issue during the pre-season win over Cork City. Wearing the captain’s armband after coming on at half-time, Welsh endured a nightmare outing. His mix-up with Ross Doohan led to Cork’s equaliser before a heavy collision forced him off. He was seen leaving the field using his shirt as a makeshift sling, clearly in discomfort.

There were real fears the injury could complicate his future, with a permanent exit on the cards following a solid loan spell at KV Mechelen. The Belgian side, along with other interested clubs, had been keeping close tabs on his situation, but any movement was put on hold pending a clearer view of his fitness.

Now back in training in Como, Welsh is in a position to reassess his options. While it remains to be seen whether he’ll feature again in pre-season, his return means a summer move – likely on a permanent basis – could still materialise if the right offer lands.

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Welsh has a tough route to feature regularly for Celtic in the backline. Auston Trusty is fighting with Liam Scales for a starting spot next to Cameron Carter-Vickers. Dane Murray has seen a lot of game time in pre-season, with Kieran Tierney and Inamura also able to play in a central role.