ANGE POSTECOGLOU has lifted the lid on the "challenge" posed by having so many players missing for Celtic's away clash at St Johnstone. 

The Parkhead side line-up with a somewhat under-strength team at McDiarmid Park this lunchtime. 

Skipper Callum McGregor is the most notable absentee, with Joe Hart another big player missing. 

Kyogo is fit to play from the start. 

But Postecoglou admits the last few days have been tough. 

He told Sky Sports pre-match: "It's been a challenge that's for sure. But we've had challenges from day one. We just roll with it. 

"We've put a team out there today that we expect to do well. 

"We've had significant player absences all year. The players have got on with it - we haven't made excuses or allowances for ourselves and it's the same today. 

"It's great to have Kyogo back, he was really up for playing today. Hopefully he does well."

Vasilis Barkas is back in the team for a rare start under Postecoglou. 

And the Aussie boss has urged the Greek goalie to grab his opportunity. 

He continued: "He gets an opportunity, he's like everyone else. 

"Like I said a couple of weeks ago, they all train hard, They all train hard for a reason - for when that opportunity comes along. 

"I can't tell them when that's going to happen, they've just got to be ready for it and he's ready for his today."