Celtic handed Alistair Johnston return update after injury setback

Celtic handed Alistair Johnston injury blow with major matches at risk

Celtic could be without Alistair Johnston for a significant spell after the defender was forced off at half-time during the 5-1 victory over Kilmarnock at Rugby Park.

The Canada international appeared to pick up a knock and was withdrawn at the interval. Shaun Maloney initially played down concerns after the match, suggesting that Johnston’s substitution was precautionary after he felt a niggle.

However, a potential six-week lay-off would represent a major setback for Martin O’Neill, with Johnston potentially missing as many as nine matches.

That list could include Celtic’s Champions League play-off against Austrian champions LASK, the opening League Phase fixture in European competition and the first Old Firm derby of the season against Rangers.

Johnston’s latest issue will also raise concerns given his injury history.

The right-back missed 57 matches last season because of hamstring problems, following a disrupted summer caused by Canada’s involvement in the Gold Cup.

He eventually returned towards the end of the campaign and played in Celtic’s final five league matches. His contribution proved important as the Hoops produced a dramatic final-day victory over Hearts to secure the Premiership title.

Johnston has again had little opportunity for a proper summer break this year.

The defender represented Canada at the World Cup and helped his country reach the last 16 before their elimination by Morocco. He subsequently returned to Celtic training in late July, less than three weeks after Canada’s tournament ended.

The timing of the latest injury will therefore be closely monitored by the Celtic medical team.

Johnston’s situation could also have implications for the transfer market. Everton have recently shown considerable interest in the defender, with O’Neill confirming that the Premier League club had made contact regarding a possible transfer.

For now, Celtic have options to cover the position.

Teenager Colby Donovan has been O’Neill’s preferred alternative during the opening matches of the season, while Anthony Ralston is another option available to the manager.

However, losing Johnston for six weeks would still be a significant blow, particularly with Celtic facing a crucial period domestically and in Europe.