Douglas sets sights on Euro return

Celtic and Scotland goalkeeper Rab Douglas has set his sights on a return to action in next month's UEFA Cup clash with German side VfB Stuttgart.

After undergoing double hernia surgery earlier this month, Douglas had not been expected back until mid-March.

But he has revealed he could be available for the first leg of the UEFA Cup fourth round tie with Stuttgart on February 20, and possibly even for Scotland's friendly against Ireland on February 20.

"You've got to have goals and deep down I am aiming for Stuttgart," Douglas told the Daily Record.

"I don't know exactly how much longer it will be before I am back - we are hoping three weeks maximum.

"But it could be anything between one and six weeks. Magnus Hedman did well at the weekend but I've got to keep hoping."

Douglas also said he would be phoning Scotland manager Berti Vogts to ensure he was at least considered for the Ireland game.

"Maybe February 12, maybe not. We will have to wait and see. I have spoken to the national goalie coach Jim Stewart already and I will be speaking to Berti this week.

"Every day is a bonus at the moment and I'm just trying to get nearer and nearer. I cannot say aye or no at the moment but it would be nice to play at Hampden.

"You don't rule out anything until you have to. There are probably games for Celtic to aim for before that game.

"The earlier I am back the better. I am doing gym work at the moment and a little bit of running on the training pitch, so I am getting there."

As well as taking back his first-team role from Hedman, Douglas faces added competition after the singing of Javier Broto.

But he is undaunted. "There have always been three goalkeepers here and you need them at a club like Celtic.

"There will be three good goalies working away aiming for one place."