Return Journey

JozoSimunovicis back to full fitness and determined to play his part in Celtics push for success this season.

- Tony Connelly

TIMING is crucial in football and, with Celtic hitting their stride in the impressive 6-0 win over St Johnstone, Jozo Simunovic has marked his return at a key point in the season. Now the Croatian defender is preparing to make his case to Brendan Rodgers that he can help maintain the momentum for the upcoming games.

Simunovic started the campaign as a regular in the starting XI, having played in the first round of Champions League qualification and the opening games of the Scottish Premiership, but the 24-year-old’s season was temporarily put on hold when he picked up an injury in the Europa League qualification game against FK Suduva in August.

There followed a frustrating two months on the sidelines for the defender. During that time, Celtic’s league form fell short of the impeccable standards they set in recent seasons as they were held to a goalless draw against St Mirren before losing 2-1 to Kilmarnock.

But as Brendan Rodgers’ side have shown time and time again, they faced adversity head on and overcame the obstacles put in front of them.

Celtic responded to the loss at Rugby Park by defeating St Johnstone to book their place in the League Cup semi-final. Three days later, Celtic’s title rivals, Aberdeen, arrived at Paradise, but Derek McInnes’ team were put to the sword as the Celtic won 1-0 to rack up another important three points in the league.

Both the team and Simunovic were showing gradual signs of improvement and the two came together in perfect harmony as the Hoops defender came on as a second-half substitute in Celtic’s 6-0 demolition of St Johnstone.

It was a wonderful afternoon for Simunovic, who was delighted to see the team find their rhythm again and have the chance to be part of that.