Celtic's Erik Sviatchenko nearing comeback after three months out

Celtic's Erik Sviatchenko is gearing up for a first-team return and is hoping to put his three-month injury nightmare behind him.

The Danish defender suffered a knee ligament injury in August and has not featured since but he has set his sights on playing in the final two Champions League fixtures.

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Despite his absence, which overlapped with injuries to fellow centre-halves Jozo Simunovic and Dedryck Boyata, Brendan Rodgers' side have extended their unbeaten domestic run to 63 games while remaining on course for a place in the last 32 of the Europa League.

Sviatchenko told the Celtic website: "The international break was convenient because it let me get good sessions and then a bit of rest and keep on looking to the next game.

"I played all six games last season in the Champions League which was an amazing experience.

"We have put ourselves in a good position but the job isn't done yet and the final two group games are going to be decisive. I really hope I can play a part in them."

Sviatchenko has been out working on the grass at Lennoxtown for the past fortnight and he is happy with his progress as he looks to get back up to speed.

He said: "Every day is an improvement. I have been back for nearly two weeks now and just getting my fitness up. It has been a while and I am missing being out on the park.

"But right now the team are doing very well and it is about maintaining that standard. There is a lot of competition in our positions which is a positive because it keeps everyone on edge."

Celtic will look to extend their unbeaten run to 64 games when they travel north to Dingwall to tackle Ross County on Saturday, 18 December.