John Kennedy credited James Forrest for the way he handled a difficult period out injured and said he expected the Hoops winger to continue impressing as he worked his way back to full fitness.

Forrest returned to action against Dundee United on Sunday (March 7) after nearly six months out injured. The Hoops winger’s last game was away to Riga in the Europa League on September 24. An ankle injury sidelined him and required surgery before he could begin any sort of comeback.

It’s the longest period Forrest been out and the 29-year-old had a long road to get back to the point where he could begin playing again.

“It’s been a difficult one for James in terms of where he’s been at,” said John Kennedy in an exclusive interview with Celtic TV. “He’s a long period in the team and a good run without injury. The injury has been a setback for him but he’s dealt with that very well. On a personal level, he’s committed to the process of returning and is now at that stage where he’s been back out on the pitch. He’s been consistent in training and has come through it so its great credit to him because it’s a difficult period for anyone.

“You have to wait and see how you react to surgery and James had to go slowly. As much as you want to accelerate things and go as quickly as possible, there’s a process to follow.

'James being the professional that he is, is so diligent and so professional in his work and how he commits to anything you want him to do. He carries everything out the best he possibly can and that’s why he’s here.'

“The sports science staff and support staff provide everything for James to go and do the work but ultimately is on the player to go out and do the work. We have great staff around the pace who have been here a long time and work ever so hard to give James the support and guidance to keep nudging things along.”

John Kennedy praises James Forrest desire to get back playing in the Hoops