Neil Lennon Questions Celtic’s Alistair Johnston Decision After Fresh Injury Setback

Neil Lennon has raised concerns over Celtic’s handling of Alistair Johnston after the right-back was forced off during his return to action against Hibernian.

Johnston’s comeback lasted only 21 minutes before he was withdrawn in the 73rd minute, with Cameron Carter-Vickers introduced as his replacement at Easter Road.

The incident has raised fresh concerns over the Canadian international’s fitness, particularly after his recent struggles with recurring hamstring problems.

Speaking on Clyde 1 Superscoreboard, former Celtic striker Cillian Sheridan suggested that an earlier-than-planned introduction may have contributed to the situation.

Sheridan pointed out that Colby Donovan’s withdrawal had forced Celtic to bring Johnston into the action sooner than they might have intended.

He also questioned whether the defender could have been overly cautious about his fitness after spending time on the sidelines, explaining that the concern surrounding repeated injuries can become a difficult issue for players to manage.

Sheridan stressed that even a talented footballer can struggle to make an impact if injuries repeatedly prevent them from building consistency.

His comments reflect the growing uncertainty surrounding Johnston’s ability to stay fit and establish himself in Martin O’Neill’s starting XI again.

Lennon questions Celtic’s decision to bring Johnston back

Lennon was more forthright when discussing the defender’s latest setback, questioning why Johnston had been considered ready to play if he was unable to complete a meaningful period on the pitch.

Speaking on Sky Sports, the former Celtic manager admitted he was unsure what had happened behind the scenes, particularly given that this was not the first time Johnston had experienced injury problems.

Lennon noted that Celtic’s medical, fitness and coaching staff must have believed the defender was capable of featuring in the match. However, his early departure has raised questions about whether he was fully ready to return.

The former Hoops boss also acknowledged that O’Neill would not immediately know the extent of any potential damage, with further examinations needed before the club could establish what had happened.

Lennon suggested that Johnston was likely to have felt something was wrong rather than simply being affected by concerns about getting injured again.

He also highlighted the difficulties associated with hamstring injuries, explaining that rehabilitation and the timing of a player’s return must be carefully managed to reduce the risk of another recurrence.

If Johnston has aggravated the same injury, Lennon believes it would represent a particularly concerning development for the defender.

Celtic face fresh selection questions ahead of Dundee United

Johnston’s latest problem comes at an inconvenient time for O’Neill, who has already had to contend with several defensive absences during his time in charge.

Colby Donovan has taken advantage of his opportunities in the first team, while Dane Murray has also been given chances to establish himself in the senior side.

Carter-Vickers’ return to action at Easter Road offered Celtic some encouragement, although Johnston’s withdrawal forced another defensive adjustment during the second half.

At present, there is no confirmed diagnosis regarding Johnston’s latest injury scare. Celtic will need to assess the defender before determining whether he faces another spell on the sidelines.

With Dundee United due to visit Celtic Park on Wednesday, O’Neill must now weigh up his options at right-back.

Donovan could continue in the role after his recent involvement, while Jordan Lotomba and Tony Ralston provide further alternatives if Johnston is unavailable.

Until the club provides a clearer update, uncertainty will remain over when the Canadian can return to regular action and whether this latest setback will disrupt his season further.