Celtic forward Kris Commons frustrated by European Qualifier break

Celtic forward Kris Commons says he would have preferred no disruption to the domestic schedule following his recent recovery from a hamstring injury.

The Nottingham-born player called time on his Scotland career two years ago after two goals in 12 appearances to concentrate on his club career.

Since missing a league victory over St Johnstone and the 3-3 Europa League home draw with Inter, Commons, 31, has scored the opening goal in last month's 2-0 League Cup final win over Dundee United and netted against the same opponents in the 4-0 Scottish Cup quarter-final replay.

After admitting he would normally relish the chance to recharge his batteries during the international break, Commons told the Celtic View: “It’s coming at a weird time as I was injured two weeks ago and I would like a run in the team to try to get another couple of goals.

“But for a guy who’s not a spring chicken any more, it’s always nice to try and get a bit of sun, especially living in Glasgow.

“I’m missing out on the Vitamin D, so I need to go and get some sunshine and recharge - I haven’t booked anything yet but I could do with getting in a rocket and flying to the sun just to get some rays.

'Fit and healthy'

“But it’s just a great opportunity for me to spend time with my family and friends and do things I’m not normally able to do. 

“I come back into the team feeling fresh and just get that boost when you get a bit of sunshine – you feel recharged and ready to kick on again."

Celtic are five points clear of Aberdeen in the Scottish Premiership with a game in hand following last weekend's 3-0 victory over Dundee United.

Commons admitted it was important Celtic's international contingent returned to Lennoxtown fit and healthy to allow the club to continue their domestic treble challenge.

He said: "We have some huge games coming up with the semi-final and we want to try and win this league sooner rather than later. These are exciting times for us at the minute.

“It’s always difficult with internationals as you are hoping and wishing that everyone does well and gets the results that they want, but you want them to come back fresh and injury-free.

"If you start picking up injuries on international duty that’s the most frustrating thing for a club manager, but the boys have a commitment to do well for their country and do well at a top level.

“Hopefully they come back feeling fresh and feeling good, having put in some good performances that will keep them going.”