Ryan Christie believes Leigh Griffiths can add bite to Celtic attack

The striker has been out of action for the best part of a month after picking up a hamstring strain against Aberdeen, but he is back in contention for a place in the team against Kilmarnock this week.

That could open the door to a Champions League shirt for next week’s meeting against Manchester City, something that Christie believes will be of benefit to the Parkhead side.

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“He is so important for us,” said Christie. “I am sure that once we get him back in then we will be scoring even more goals.

“We have done really well in his absence as a team but I do think he brings a killer instinct and I think that is what we need, especially in some of the big games. He is a big player for us and as a team we will all be pleased to see him back out there because he can make something out of nothing.”

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Christie himself played a decent cameo role this week when he came off the bench to set up James Forrest for the goal that finally broke Alloa’s resistance and for now the player is keen to seize every chance he can get.

“It has been brilliant and very enjoyable since the new manager came in,” he said. “You are coming into training and the sessions are great, really enjoyable. We have had a lot of games which is good because he is using the full squad at times.

“Maybe there is a small bit of pressure when you get the chance to come on after games but there is also excitement. Everyone wants to make an impression and you just want to make them count when you do get them.”

In that respect the dual between European and domestic football can aid fringe players like Christie who are looking to make a mark this season.

“There are so many big games now in the Champions League and we also have the semi-final of the Betfred League Cup so there is a lot to look forward to,” he said.

“Everyone’s target is to be in there and be part of the UEFA Champions League nights. Every player is fighting for that opportunity. They are amazing nights to be involved in so it is just about trying to do what you can when you get on the pitch to keep yourself in the manager’s thoughts.”

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And the former Inverness playmaker believes that even although he has not played regularly at Celtic that he has developed overall as a player.

“All the boys here have been great with me from the very first day,” he said. “Leigh up front is good giving you wee pointers but guys like Tom [Rogic] have also been very good. He is a player who has great technical ability and training with players like this every day can only benefit myself.”