By Frank McAvennie

2nd Dec, 2021 | 7:00am

Postecoglou told to start Rogic v Hearts after 'big' Celtic update - pundit

Frank McAvennie is “delighted” Tom Rogic could return to the Celtic side for Thursday’s game against Hearts.

The former Hoops hitman, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, wants to see the midfielder start the game.

As per Go Radio’s Jo Hendry on Wednesday (1 December), Ange Postecoglou confirmed Rogic, 28, is available to face Hearts on Thursday (2 December).

The midfielder has missed the Hoops’ last three league games with a hamstring issue.

McAvennie is thrilled Rogic is set to return on Thursday night as he “offers so much” to the side.

“I’m delighted,” McAvennie told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.

“A few weeks ago, I was saying how big of a blow it would be to lose him for a long time.

“I think we have coped well without him. He just bosses that midfield.

“I think he makes players like Turnbull look better and more composed in there.

“He offers so much going forward as well. He has such a good eye for a pass.

“With Kyogo’s movement, that’s a deadly combination.

“Hearts won’t be an easy game so to have him back is a big boost for us.

“I would have him in from the start.”

Ahead of Thursday night’s clash, Celtic sit two points ahead of third-placed Hearts but hold a game in hand.

The Hoops are looking to close the four-point gap between themselves and first-placed Rangers by keeping up their impressive recent form.

In other Celtic news, senior figure has made mind up on quitting Celtic after offer from England.