Viljami Sinisalo happy to prove his worth as Kasper Schmeichel nears return

Viljami Sinisalo is not allowing himself to think about what will happen when Celtic number one Kasper Schmeichel returns to fitness.

The 23-year-old Finn has started each of the Hoops’ last six matches since the 38-year-old Denmark keeper suffered a shoulder injury on international duty in late March.

Schmeichel is battling to get back in time for the Scottish Cup final against Aberdeen on May 24.

Asked if he felt he had given manager Brendan Rodgers a decision to make with his performances since stepping into the team, Sinisalo said: “That’s a tough question.

“Kasper’s been brilliant for us for the whole season, he’s been amazing. Up there, definitely, with one of the players of the season.

“What he brings to the squad, what he brings to the changing room, you can’t replace that. He’s a big voice, he’s a leader. Listen, Kasper’s had an unbelievable career, he’s done really well for us.

“If I stay in the team, if Kasper gets in the team, that’s the manager’s decision. I’m just trying to prove that I can play for this football club every day in training and when the chances come, ie today and the games after. I’ve just got to focus on the next game, whenever that is, and try and do my best.”

Rodgers said after Sunday’s 1-1 draw away to Rangers that Sinisalo had shown he “has the authority to play for Celtic”.

“To hear someone say that is great, obviously, but I want to get better,” he said. “Every game is an opportunity to get better, and I’m very much driven in that and trying to be the best I can.

“Whether that’s playing (at Ibrox) or playing next weekend or the games that I’ve played, I want to just try and showcase my ability to the people that probably haven’t seen me as much.”