Celtic Handed Major Fitness Boost

Kelechi Iheanacho’s return to training has continued quietly at Lennoxtown, away from the spotlight that has followed Celtic’s January business.

While much of the attention has centred on Tomas Cvancara and his potential debut, Iheanacho has been steadily building back fitness with little noise around it.

The striker did not feature against Auchinleck Talbot in the Scottish Cup and was also absent from the Europa League draw with Bologna. Those omissions were not a surprise, given his recent injury history and the care being taken with his workload. Still, his continued presence on the training pitch this week suggests progress that is worth noting.

Images from training on Friday morning showed Iheanacho again working with the main group. That marks another step forward after a stop-start period since his arrival at Celtic. The focus has clearly been on consistency rather than speed, with the club keen to avoid another setback.

With Sunday’s league trip to Tynecastle approaching, the timing is interesting. Celtic face Hearts knowing they trail by six points, and the game carries weight beyond the usual fixture. Any additional attacking option, even from the bench, could matter in a tight contest.

Cvancara’s arrival has naturally drawn headlines. A new striker signing always brings interest, especially with questions around whether he could be involved so soon after joining. That focus, however, has meant Iheanacho’s return to training has gone largely under the radar.

Over the last week, Iheanacho has quietly increased his involvement. He has moved from individual work back into full sessions, which is often the final stage before match consideration. While training alone does not guarantee minutes, it does suggest the medical staff are satisfied with how he is responding.

Kelechi Iheanacho back on the grass at Lennoxtown this morning 💪
The striker continues his return from injury and could be in contention for Sunday’s trip to Tynecastle 🏟️

With Tomáš Čvančara expected to play a part after signing this week, Iheanacho could be a serious option… pic.twitter.com/4YuRj6wmvu

— Michael Shearer (@MichaelcShearer) January 23, 2026

Celtic have had to manage attacking resources carefully this season. Injuries and form have forced changes, with players often asked to fill roles outside their comfort zone. Having another senior forward edging closer to availability offers a degree of balance.

Iheanacho’s profile is different from other options. He brings experience and composure in the box, along with an understanding of when to hold play rather than rush it. Those traits can be useful in matches where space is limited and chances are rare.

Tynecastle is rarely open or forgiving. Games there often turn on moments rather than patterns, and substitutes can play a key role late on. If Iheanacho is deemed ready, even a short appearance could be valuable.

There is also the wider context to consider. Celtic face a busy run of fixtures, and rotation will become unavoidable. Getting Iheanacho back into the matchday picture would help spread the load rather than placing pressure on a small group.

The decision will rest on risk as much as readiness. After missing recent matches, throwing a player back too soon can undo weeks of careful work. The fact he was not rushed into the cup or European games suggests the club are sticking to a plan.

That plan appears focused on long-term availability rather than short-term fixes. Iheanacho’s injury issues have already interrupted his time at Celtic, and the priority now is building a run rather than chasing a single appearance.

Meanwhile, Cvancara’s potential involvement adds another layer. If the new signing is introduced, it may be from the bench, which could shape how minutes are shared. Iheanacho and Cvancara do not compete directly for the same type of role, but balance still matters.

For supporters, Iheanacho’s quiet return may come as a reminder that January is not only about signings. Players already at the club can feel like new additions when they return at the right moment.

There is no guarantee Iheanacho will feature on Sunday. Being in contention is different from being selected, especially in a match of this importance. Still, his presence in training gives Martin O’Neill an option that was not there weeks ago.

As the build-up to Tynecastle continues, headlines will focus on the title gap and new arrivals. In the background, Iheanacho’s steady progress may yet prove just as important.

If he does make the bench, it would mark a quiet milestone rather than a comeback story. For Celtic, having choices matters. For Iheanacho, the aim is simple: stay fit, stay involved, and let the rest follow.