Sviatchenko recovers as Celtic prep for Champs League run-in

Light Blues board can’t be criticised for gaffer waiting game – Chris Jack, P20

HOOPS defender Erik Sviatchenko has handed Brendan Rodgers a boost by declaring himself ready for the frantic run-in between now and New Year.

The Danish defender suffered a knee ligament injury back in August as Celtic faced Rosenborg in the Champions League qualifiers and has been sidelined for the last three months.

He was part of a catalogue of defensive injuries with Jozo Simunovic and Dedryck Boyata both also out at different spells. Nir Bitton has been forced to deputise at centre-half but Sviatchenko has his sights on making an impact in Celtic’s remaining two Champions League group games.

The Parkhead side are within touching distance of securing a Europa League spot which would give them European football after Christmas and Sviatchenko is ready to play his part.

“I think we are aiming to get me fully fit for games as soon as possible,” the