Thompson set for early return

Alan Thompson is set to return sooner than expected to full training this week.

It was feared the Celtic midfielder would miss the Hoops’ crucial Champions League Group A showdown with Bayern Munich on November 25 after sustaining a calf injury in the victory over Aberdeen.

He has missed recent victories over Kilmarnock, Lyon and Dunfermline – but he could be set to resume activity against Dundee United next week and then against Bayern.

Celtic manager Martin O’Neill said: “He’s doing very well indeed and making good progress – and with a bit of luck he should be back by then [Bayern game].”

Thompson was troubled with a hamstring injury last month which ruled him out of action even before he suffered the calf strain.

It was a disappointment made all the more acute because of the fact England assistant manager Tord Grip was due in Glasgow to watch Thompson’s performance against Anderlecht.

A decision will not be made until later in the week regarding Thompson’s return to full training.

He could be joined by Craig Beattie and Bobby Petta, while Paul Lambert is continuing his rehabilitation.