Adamant Neil Lennon insists he doesn't want to lose out of favour winger Scott Sinclair during the January transfer window.
The 30-year-old Celtic star hasn't played since September but did earn himself a place among the squad for Thursday's thrilling 2-1 win over Lazio on Thursday.
But the wide man, who is out of contract in the summer, failed to make the bench for Sunday's clash with Motherwell at Parkhead.
And the Hoops boss admits opportunities will come Sinclair's way with the Premiership side facing a jam-packed schedule before the winter break.
Lennon told Sportsound: "I hope not. He will still play a part.
"We've got nine games in December and I imagine Scott will figure the squad or even the team in some of those games."
"With Tom Rogic coming back into contention, Scotty has been squeezed out at the minute.
"I've got real competition in those places and Scott's finding himself out of the picture at the minute."
Meanwhile, Lennon admits striker Leigh Griffiths is still working his way back into contention but could return after the international break.
He added: "He needs to get up to condition physically - hopefully he can do that over the next few weeks."
