Brendan Rodgers' side are ahead of Old Firm rivals Rangers at the top of the table on goal difference and one point ahead of Kilmarnock, with a game in hand over both clubs.

Christie is looking forward to resuming the title race against the Buddies and showing the rest of the league that they mean business.

The 23-year-old attacker said: "We have spoken a lot about coming back after the break and really wanting to stamp our authority in the games coming up and put down a marker and that starts with St Mirren.

"A lot has been said about how competitive the league is this year. That's good for the league as a whole.

"For us, we want to kick on. Hopefully, first and foremost, stay top of the league and if we can start getting a gap between us and the rest of the teams, that's what we are looking to do.

"The break came at the right time. It's always nice to get that breather after such a hectic December.

"Dubai was nice to get away to, work hard and get back to peak conditioning.

"We have that hunger and excitement for the games coming up now so we just want to get back into it."

The Scotland international is aware two valuable points were dropped against the Saints in a goalless draw in Paisley earlier in the season.

He also noted that Oran Kearney's side came back from 2-0 down against Alloa in their Scottish Cup tie at the weekend to win 3-2 with 10 men.

He said: "It's a while ago now that first fixture but we found it frustrating at the time.

"We were disappointed not to come away with the three points. That's definitely something we'll be looking to do now.

"It was an incredible comeback from them and it shows the fight they have. It's the same with every team in the league.

"No one is going to come to Celtic Park and lie down, everyone is going to put up a fight.

"That's something we've had to get used to and we know it's going to be hard.

"Airdrie at the weekend made it difficult for us at times, credit to them. I'm sure St Mirren will come and look to try and frustrate us."

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