04.12.2015 02:15 h

Cole hopes to provide 'nuisance' value at Celtic

Former West Ham and England striker Carlton Cole believes he can make such a nuisance of himself with Celtic that he can help inspire a successful Scottish title defence.

The 32-year-old made his first appearance as a substitute last week and contributed to Celtic's third goal in a 3-1 win at Inverness Caledonian Thistle.

However, he said there is a lot more to come.

"When I went out there I didn't feel on-point. But I felt if I made a nuisance of myself I could help the team. The boys played brilliantly but I didn't feel sharp as it was my first game since May 24," Cole said.

"You haven't seen the real Carlton Cole yet as I haven't played in such a long time. I was just happy to be on the field, cause some problems and provide a bit of presence up front.

"I'll have to work on my fitness and I need to get on the field more often and ensure I perform better than I did on Sunday."

Meanwhile, midfielder Nir Bitton is hopeful Celtic can return to winning ways at home again after two games without a win at Parkhead.

The Glasgow giants were held to a goalless draw with Kilmarnock in their last league encounter at Celtic Park before a defeat by Ajax at the same venue last Thursday ended their Europa League hopes.

Ronny Deila's side did bounce back at Inverness last Sunday but Bitton, who was suspended for the Ajax match, is relishing a return to action in Glasgow on Saturday when Hamilton are the visitors.

The Israeli international bemoaned the defensive approach some visiting teams adopt at Celtic Park but said the Hoops, who are seven points clear at the top of the Scottish Premiership, should have the ability to break the opposition down.

"It was really disappointing not to be part of the game last Thursday," Bitton said.

"You always want to be involved and help the team and we want to bounce back at home against Hamilton.

"We didn't play quickly enough and were too slow on the ball against Kilmarnock. We didn't create a lot of chances. In these types of matches, if you score the first goal then you can finish the game early and it becomes a lot easier.

"There are no excuses when you play against a team that defends so deeply against you. It's difficult, but we have to deal with it.

"We just need to break through and play our own game. We have to make sure we play the way the manager wants us to, quickly on the ball, creating chances and scoring goals."

Celtic will be without two of their most experienced players for the clash against Hamilton with influential captain Scott Brown and Charlie Mulgrew ruled out through injury.

Elsewhere on Saturday, Aberdeen could close to within four points of Celtic if they can win away to Dundee, Hearts host Inverness and bottom of the table Dundee United take on fellow strugglers Kilmarnock.

Fixtures (1500GMT unless stated)