Kelechi Iheanacho has been pictured back training with the Celtic first-team squad at Lennoxtown on Thursday morning, marking another step forward in his recovery.

The striker had previously been working away from the main group as he continued to build fitness following a frustrating spell on the sidelines. His return to full squad training is a clear sign that progress is being made, even if caution remains around his next involvement.

Images from Lennoxtown showed Iheanacho taking part alongside teammates during the session. While that does not automatically confirm match readiness, it does indicate that the medical and coaching staff are satisfied with how his recovery is moving.

Iheanacho’s time at Celtic has been disrupted by injury since his arrival, limiting his ability to settle into a consistent run of games. Each setback has stalled momentum, both for the player and for a side that has been short of attacking options at key moments this season.

Martin O’Neill has already spoken openly about the need to manage Iheanacho carefully. The focus has been on getting him fully fit rather than rushing him back and risking further problems.

Celtic’s current schedule adds extra interest to his return to group training. The Hoops face Auchinleck Talbot on Sunday in the Scottish Cup fourth round at Rugby Park, a fixture that often brings rotation and opportunities for players returning from injury.

The artificial surface at Rugby Park will be a consideration for Celtic’s medical team. Decisions around involvement will likely balance match sharpness with the risk of overloading a player who has only recently stepped back into full training.

Whether Iheanacho is involved on Sunday remains to be seen. Even if he does not feature, his presence back with the squad is still a positive development at a crucial point in the season.

Celtic have been clear about their need for attacking depth. Injuries and form issues have left the squad stretched, especially in forward areas, which has placed added pressure on those available.

That context explains why Iheanacho’s return is being closely watched. When fit, he offers experience and a different profile to other attacking options, something Celtic have lacked at times during tight matches.

O’Neill has repeatedly stressed that January is about stabilising the squad while also looking ahead. Having Iheanacho edging closer to availability would ease some of that strain, even if recruitment remains a priority.

Training with the squad also allows Iheanacho to rebuild sharpness in a competitive environment. Match tempo, movement, and understanding with teammates are difficult to replicate during individual work.

For the player, this stage of recovery is often as important mentally as it is physically. Being back among the group helps restore confidence and a sense of belonging after a stop-start period.

Celtic supporters will take encouragement from the images but will also understand the need for patience. Recent seasons have shown the risks of bringing players back too early, especially on demanding surfaces.

The Scottish Cup tie itself presents its own challenges. Auchinleck Talbot are well organised, physical, and motivated, while Celtic must balance progress in the competition with protecting key players.

O’Neill has made it clear that no opponent is taken lightly. At the same time, squad management will play a major role in selection decisions.

If Iheanacho is deemed ready for involvement, even from the bench, it would mark an important milestone in his Celtic journey. If not, the priority will remain on ensuring he is fully prepared for the league and European demands ahead.

For now, the focus is on steady progress rather than headlines. Iheanacho’s return to full training is a step forward, not a finish line.

Celtic f.c. Iheanacho at Parkhead
Celtic’s Kelechi Iheanacho celebrates scoring his team’s first goal from the penalty spot during the William Hill Premiership match at Celtic Park, Glasgow. Picture date: Sunday October 5, 2025.

As Celtic prepare for Sunday at Rugby Park, attention will naturally turn to the team sheet. Iheanacho’s name, whether included or not, will be one of the most closely watched.

Regardless of immediate involvement, his presence back with the squad offers a boost at a time when Celtic are searching for stability, fitness, and options in the final third.