Celtic boost as playmaker returns from long-term injury - report
Jonny Hayes is set to give Celtic a boost by returning for the start of pre-season, according to a report.
The Daily Record claims that the 30-year-old midfielder, who suffered a broken leg in the Boxing Day game against Dundee, hasn't suffered any setbacks in rehab.
He has been doing light training and will hook up with his Celtic teammates ahead of the friendly game against SK Vorwarts Steyr on June 27.
Football Insider verdict:
Journeyman Hayes got the move of his career when Brendan Rodgers signed him for £1.3million from Aberdeen, after stints with Forest Green, Reading, MK Dons, Leicester and Cheltenham Town. The midfielder had enjoyed five solid seasons in the Premiership with Aberdeen before his move, and while he struggled to hit the ground running at Parkhead, he had made 15 league appearances when he suffered the injury on Boxing Day that has kept him out ever since. The 30-year-old will add depth to the Celtic squad and versatility, with the ability to play either on the left or right, and offer cover for Kieran Tierney. This is great news for Hayes and gives Rodgers extra options as he plots the summer revamp to contend with a Rangers side expected to be more competitive after the arrival of Steven Gerrard and Gary McAllister. Gerrard officially takes charge today and the next month could be extremely interesting, even before any shots are fired on the pitch next season.
In other Celtic news, Done deal – Celtic defender agrees exit after paperwork finalised