Champions League: Mikael Lustig ready for Celtic return

Lustig has played in pre-season

Celtic's Mikael Lustig is hopeful he will be ready for the Champions League opener against Stjarnan following a long injury lay-off.

The Swede's season ended on 7 February after suffering an ankle injury, but he has played in all three of Celtic's pre-season friendlies.

"Fitness-wise, I would lie if I said I'm in the best shape of my life, but it's getting better," he said.

"It's important that I've played in three games now."

Celtic start their season at home against the Icelandic side in Wednesday's second qualifying round first leg.

And Lustig is almost certain to start following the sale of fellow right-back Adam Matthews to Sunderland, while new signing Saidy Janko still getting up to speed.

"Hopefully on Wednesday I'm going to be ready," added Lustig.

"Hopefully there will competition for places.

"Both me and Adam Matthews did well together, but the main thing for me now is to try to stay fit for the season and if I'm fit I'm sure I'll be able to start."