Celtic striker Callum Osmand was pictured back in training at Lennoxtown this morning, just over a month on from the last update on his recovery. It’s a small step, but one that gives a clearer picture of where the young striker is ahead of the run-in.
The forward has been out since November after a hamstring injury halted his early progress in the first team. He had started to find his feet before that, offering something different with his movement and willingness to stretch games. Since then, it’s been a long wait.
Updates in early March suggested his recovery had not been smooth. There were minor delays during rehabilitation, each one pushing things back slightly. That left his return date unclear, especially with the season moving into its final phase.
Seeing him back out on the grass changes that slightly. It doesn’t mean he is ready to step straight into the squad for the visit of St Mirren, but it does show he is moving in the right direction. At this stage, getting through sessions without any further issues is the main focus.
Celtic won’t rush him. Muscle injuries need careful handling, especially with a younger player who is still building his way into senior football. Throwing him back too early risks undoing the work that has already been done.
Kelechi Iheanacho’s recent goal vs Dundee allows a bit of patience. The priority is making sure that when Osmand does return, he is ready to contribute rather than just make up numbers.
That said, his presence in training is a positive sign. With six league games left and a Scottish Cup semi-final still to come, there are matches where fresh energy off the bench could make a difference.
For now, it’s about building him back up day by day. The timing of his return will depend on how he comes through the next few sessions, but being back involved at Lennoxtown is a step forward after a frustrating few months out.
