But he came through an Under-21 game against Dundee United today to prove his fitness.

The news of Hedman’s return will come as a major boost for the Hoops, who are closely monitoring the progress of Rob Douglas, who has been out since suffering a recurrence of a thigh problem in the Old Firm derby on April 27.

The Swede is targeting a squad place for the game against Porto in Seville a week on Wednesday for his return.

He told celticfc.net: “I have had no reaction whatsoever and after being out for so long it almost felt like a new experience to be out playing football.

“The longer the game went on, the more safe and secure I felt. It was a massive step for me psychologically after what has been a tremendously frustrating season.

“Fitness-wise, I have no problems but now I need to work on getting back a bit of sharpness.

“It was crucial for me to get a game and apart from anything else it was nice to feel like part of a football team again instead of sitting injured.

“I want to take it step by step but obviously my target is to be part of the squad in Seville.

“All I can do between now and then is keep working, but I’m delighted to be able to get back involved.”

Winger Steve Guppy also returned to action in the 4-2 win over the Tannadice side after a double hernia operation.

The former Leicester man was thought to have been ruled out for the rest of the season but has played his way back into contention for the UEFA final and the last two crucial Bank of Scotland Premier League game.

But striker John Hartson is making slow progress in his battle for fitness against a back injury.

The Welsh international started running again today and will be monitored by Parkhead medical staff.

Chris Sutton, Johan Mjallby and Joos Valgaeren all came through the 1-0 victory over Hearts without any adverse reaction.

But winger Bobby Petta has been ruled out for the rest of the campaign after sustaining an ankle injury in training.