There's always some nerves on your first day back after a summer break.
But any butterflies are outweighed by sheer excitement ahead of a campaign that promises so much for Celtic. Ange Postecoglou 's side are basking in the glow of rousing year that delivered Premiership title glory and a Premier Sports Cup triumph. The Australian's mantra to 'Never Stop' precedes him at this point, however, his charges won't need extra motivation with a return to the Champions League upcoming.
It was all smiles despite the smirry rain falling from the skies, as the rolling hills of Lennoxtown offer little respite from the unpredictable Scottish weather. But there appeared plenty of bright spots on the opening day as a mixture of familiar faces, who were absent on international duty, and hungry rising stars aimed to catch Postecogolou's eye. There was no Alexandro Bernabei or Jota hiding in the background, but there were two new Celtic signings getting down to work.
Incoming keeper Ben Siegrist was right among it, as he aimed to make a telling first impression after four successful years with Dundee United.
The Swiss keeper admitted he was going to tap into Joe Hart 's knowledge and the former England No.1 was loving life after returning to the club's East Dunbartonshire base.
Highly rated keeper Tobi Oluwayemi was also in the mix, with goalkeeping coach Stevie Woods is convinced the England youth cap will make the grade in Glasgow's east end.
And there was a fellow new arrival, of course, legendary Australian winger Harry Kewell is now part of Team Postecoglou and one of the first players he greeted was Mikey Johnston.
Kewell spoke about his desire to teach, and close pal Craig Moore tipped him to make the club's wide boys better this season.
And no one needs a mentor like Johnston. The much-maligned former Scotland U21 star oozes ability but has struggled mightily amid a host of injury woes.
But the next batch of Parkhead stars were also among those who were in the mix on day one.
Celtic B trio Bosun Lawal , Johnny Kenny, Rocco Vata are all aiming to earn their stripes with high hopes they can continue their upwards trajectory.
And what about a word for the old guard? James McCarthy was snapped pushing the pace as he looks to make good on his bid to be a force at his boyhood club.
James Forrest was ready to go as well. The 30-year-old penned a new deal at the end of last season and will look to break free of the injury bug that has returned in recent seasons.
And a word for Reo Hatate , the Japanese midfielder admitted he was jiggered after going straight from one title triumph to another, but he will look to return to the form which left onlookers open mouthed when be broke into the team.
Liam Shaw and Osaze Urhoghide, both on loan during the second half of last season, were also among the mix.
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