Reo Hatate has returned to Celtic training after injury.

The Japan international, 26, had been sidelined after an issue with both of his calves.

Hatate was ruled out after the injury blow while on Asian Cup duty with Japan in January.

The midfielder limped off against Bahrain at the tournament and was expected to be out for five to six weeks.

Now, Hatate has stepped up his return to action as he joined his team-mates at Lennoxtown ahead of this weekend's match against St Johnstone.

Brendan Rodgers said of Hatate's progress earlier this week: "He is progressing well. He’s out on the pitch doing his work so we’re hoping that after the international break he’ll be with the squad.

"He’ll be training with the group in the international break and will be available afterwards. It’s more looking for the Livingston game afterward the break.

READ MORE: Celtic dealt injury blow as Luis Palma out for one month

"After the international break, we’ve got a big game then. Just having the availability of that level of player, the dynamism he has, clearly it’s something that we’ve missed. So to have him back will be great.”

Meanwhile, Luis Palma has been ruled out for up to a month.

The winger will not join up with the Honduras national team due to a leg issue. Palma's county wanted him to travel for international duty but they have been informed of an injury by Celtic chiefs.

A Honduran football association statement read: "According to the medical department of the Honduran national team and evaluating all the clinical information supported by images sent by their Celtic FC counterparts, it is estimated that the national team will maintain a rehabilitation period of 3 to 4 weeks to return to competition."