RONNY DEILA has been given a double boost over the fitness of Celtic midfield double-act Stefan Johansen and Nir Bitton.
The Norwegian international’s ankle knock is not as bad as first feared, while the Israeli ace has returned to training after missing three matches through injury.
Johansen was helped off the pitch at half-time in the 3-0 Scottish Cup quarter-final victory over Morton following a reckless challenge from Michael Miller.
It was particularly frustrating for the Norwegian, who is currently Scotland’s Player of the Year, as he was having his best game of the season on Sunday before the reckless tackle ended his involvement.
But tests have returned good news for Johansen with a club statement reading: “There was concern at the extent of the midfielder’s injury.
“But the club’s medical team have subsequently ascertained that, while he will miss Saturday’s Glasgow derby away to Partick Thistle, he will hopefully be available for selection the following weekend.”
The champions, going for five titles in a row, travel to Kilmarnock on March 19.
