But he has fought his way back to fitness and is hoping to be in contention for Saturday’s trip to Tannadice – and force his way back into Martin O’Neill’s plans ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League clash against Bayern Munich.

Thompson said: “I don’t usually suffer from strains and pulls and I’ve had two in the last six weeks so it would be nice to think I’ve done my share of sitting on the sidelines for the season.

“It’s good to get back and hopefully now that’ll be me. Hopefully I can get a good week of training under my belt and then be in contention for the trip to Tannadice.”

Thompson’s injuries could not have come at a worst time.

He missed out on the last European tie against Anderlecht – denying England number two Tord Grip the chance to see him in action and ruined any chance he had of being named in the national squad for the friendly against Denmark.

But the Hoops star is hopeful more top class displays for Celtic mean he will be given another chance by England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson.

Thompson told the Celtic View: “It has been a frustrating time with the injuries because I’ve missed some big games. The most frustrating aspect of all was missing the Anderlecht game.

“The most important thing for me just now is to get myself fit and playing well and the main thing is that Celtic are winning and doing well.

“It was disappointing that I was injured when Tord Grip was supposedly coming to the Champions League game but it’s up to me now. I need to keep this kind of form up for Celtic and see what happens.”