The substitute Kelechi Iheanacho kept his cool amid the tension as Celtic capitalised on more indiscipline from 10-man Hibernian to move level on points with the leaders, Hearts.
Hibs’ cause was dented in the 20th minute when Jamie McGrath became their fourth player in three games to be sent off.
It looked like Celtic were on course for a straightforward victory when Daizen Maeda broke the deadlock in the 41st minute, but the captain, Joe Newell, scored a contentious equaliser for the hosts in first-half stoppage time.
Celtic got themselves back in front in the 72nd minute when Iheanacho – a key figure in recent wins over Dundee and St Mirren – again popped up with a vital goal.
Martin O’Neill’s side had to endure some nervy moments in the closing stages but held on for a fourth-consecutive league win to move four points clear of third-placed Rangers and behind Hearts on goal difference. Hearts and Rangers play each other at Tynecastle on Monday.
