Celtic defender Bobo Balde has told manager Gordon Strachan he will be fit for the Old Firm derby on Saturday.
The Guinea international made his first appearance since April 5 when he played the full 90 minutes of the CIS Insurance Cup win over St Mirren.
The 30-year-old had been suffering from a long-term stomach problem but insists he will be ready for action against Rangers at Celtic Park if required.
Balde said: 'It was nice to get a first-team game under my belt. I have been looking forward to returning for quite some time.
'I always knew I'd be out for around a couple of months after the operation, so I wouldn't say I'm back any sooner than I expected, this is the normal time for me to be back playing again.
'I still feel a bit stiff, but that is natural and it will improve the longer I'm back running, training and playing in games. It will eventually go away.
'But I feel good. If the manager needs me to play on Saturday then of course I am ready, but there are other players who have been playing in the team and I understand the situation.
'I think there is competition for places and that is good for the football club.'
