SPL: Petta targets Celtic return

Celtic star Bobby Petta is looking to make a timely return for his side’s championship party against Livingston at Parkhead next Saturday.

The Dutch winger, who recently signed a new contract extension, has not played since coming on as substitute in the CIS Insurance Cup semi-final defeat to Rangers on February 5 after sustaining a calf injury.

Steve Guppy and Alan Thompson have performed well in his absence, but the latter will miss the match against Livingston through suspension.

The former Ipswich star will return to full training early next week, but he insists that will not guarantee him a place in the starting line-up.

Petta said: ‘‘I’m hoping I’ll be able to join in full training on Tuesday when the rest of the players come back and we’ll take it from there.

‘‘I could be fit and available next weekend, but it might be difficult to get back in the team. Steve Guppy and Alan Thompson have been playing well on the left and the team have been winning.

‘‘I’d like to get a few games under my belt before the season finishes. I signed a new contract last month which was a bit of security for myself and my wife and now I’m desperate to get back playing again.’’

Petta’s injury problems have prevented him from making his international debut - but he insists that getting in the Celtic team is his main priority.

He added: ‘‘At the moment I don’t really think about it.

‘‘Everything will depend on how well I am doing for Celtic - they’re my main priority.

‘‘If I play well then there’s a chance to get into the squad but just now I want to focus on getting fit.’’