KARAMOKO DEMBELE has hinted that he is on course to return to first team action sooner than expected. 

The Celtic youngster went under the knife last month as surgeons worked on his ankle. 

The 18-year-old has been out of action since the summer, when he suffered a fractured ankle during pre-season against Bristol City.

The attacker shot to fame five years ago, becoming an online sensation for his incredible skills and technical ability.

Ange Postecoglou was keen to get the England U18 star involved with his first team, as was shown with his inclusion in the pre-season trip to Wales. 

But the injury suffered in a bounce game put a halt to any progress for Dembele. 

Now, though, it appears the teen is closing in on a return. 

Dembele was pictured yesterday in full Celtic training kit by boot supplier 'classic football boots ltd'.

It remains unclear just how far away Dembele is from getting minutes on the pitch.