Celtic Handed New Jota Return Update by Insider

Paulo Bernardo has backed Jota to play a major role for Celtic when the winger finally completes his return from a lengthy injury absence.

Jota has been gradually increasing his training workload as he works towards a first-team comeback, with Celtic taking a cautious approach to his recovery after spending such a long period on the sidelines.

Bernardo, who trained with the Portuguese winger during his time at Celtic, believes the attacker can become a hugely important figure for the club once he is fully fit.

The midfielder has now moved on to Poland, but he was able to see Jota’s rehabilitation work first-hand before his departure and remains confident that the winger can make a significant difference when he returns.

“I hope he’s better right now and almost ready for coming back because I think he will be very important for Celtic this season and for the future as well,” Bernardo said.

Those comments underline the regard in which Jota is held by a player who spent plenty of time alongside him at Celtic.

Bernardo was even more emphatic when asked about Jota’s ability, describing him as one of the most gifted players he has shared a dressing room with.

“I think he’s an amazing player. He’s one of the most talented players that I’ve played with. I think he will be very important for Celtic.”

Jota’s eventual return could therefore arrive at an important moment for Celtic.

Martin O’Neill’s side have struggled for consistency and attacking fluency, leaving the manager under pressure to find solutions and improve results.

Having Jota available again would give O’Neill another proven attacking option and potentially add greater creativity and unpredictability to Celtic’s play in the final third.

Much will depend on how quickly Jota can regain his sharpness after such a long lay-off, but Bernardo’s assessment suggests Celtic could have a major attacking weapon back in their squad once the winger reaches full fitness.