LEIGH Griffiths’ goal against Aberdeen on Sunday took his Celtic tally to 117. The 30-year-old has now drawn level with Bobby Collins – who played for the Hoops in the 1940s and ‘50s – which means his next strike will take him into the club’s top 20 scorers of all-time.

Ahead of Thursday’s UEFA Europa League group-stage encounter with French side, Lille, the forward said he’s delighted to be back on the pitch and among the goals.

“It’s great, being back in the team and scoring, it’s the thing you work hard for every week," Griffiths said. "Whether I’m starting or coming off the bench, I want to contribute to the squad, and Sunday was another example of that.

“I don’t think I need to prove anything. The manager knows what I can do, whether that be starting or coming off the bench, I want to try and contribute as much as I can. But it’s not just about me, it’s about the squad and trying to get positive results.”

Griffiths expressed disappointment in losing the first Glasgow derby of the season earlier this month, and also being held to a point at Pittodrie last weekend, but said perspective is key as he and his team-mates look forward to Thursday’s Europa League game.

After that, Neil Lennon's men will prepare for Sunday’s rescheduled 2019/20 Scottish Cup semi-final against Derek McInnes’ side at Hampden.

Griffiths added: “Everybody just needs to stick together. Performance-wise, I don’t think we’ve been too bad. Against Rangers, I think they deserved to win the game, they were better than us. On Sunday, I thought we were the better side, and we were unlucky not to come away with three points.

“For me, the only opinions that matter to me are the coaching staff here at the club, and whether they feel I’m ready to start games or come off the bench to make a contribution. I’m raring to go, I’m training every day. If I get a start, then great, if not, I’ll do everything I can to help the team get the three points – in Europe or at home.

“You’re going to get pressure at a big club and just because we’ve had a couple of bad results, that doesn’t mean the whole world is coming to an end. We’ve had a couple of bad results, but it’s the same cause and we go again on Thursday.”

Leigh Griffiths: It’s great being back in the team and scoring goals