Alistair Johnston Celtic Return Update

Alistair Johnston is making good progress as his Celtic return nears.

Johnston was taken off at halftime at Kilmarnock in August. Initially precautionary, a scan showed a hamstring injury that would keep him out for two months.

It was a cause for concern given the defender missed most of last season with a similar injury, though this time around there were no fears of him being sidelined for as long.

It came amid strong transfer interest for Everton, who sought to bolster their right-back options. His injury, however, prompted them to cool their pursuit.

Celtic added Jordan Lotomba to their ranks on the eve of the summer deadline, with the Swiss international signing on a deal until the end of the season. He’s yet to make his debut, but his ability to play in both full-back roles made him an attractive signing.

He and Johnston have been included in the Hoops’ 25-man squad for the league phase of the Europa League. Their first match is against Ferencváros on September 17.

While that will come far too early for Johnston to feature, he has been spotted out on the grass at Lennoxtown, as per Sky Sports.

🍀 Kasper Hogh and Kieran Tierney are training with Celtic ahead of tomorrow’s game at St Johnstone, live on Sky Sports.

Alistair Johnston is out on the grass as he starts his injury return. pic.twitter.com/2N8MHL4Mb9

— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) September 8, 2026

The broadcaster filmed the Canada star working through an individual programme away from the main group. That is important to note. He will not be rushed back and put at risk of aggravating his injury, but Martin O’Neill did recently admit that he hopes to have the defender back for the European fixtures next month.

An October return after the international break is on the cards. The Celts face Motherwell on October 11 and then have their first Europa away day against Benfica in Lisbon four days later.

Having him back for that would be huge.

Though an exact return is unknown, seeing him out doing his own individual training programme is positive news nonetheless. Supporters have seen enough from Johnston over four-and-a-half years to know just what he can bring to the team.

Kasper Hogh and Kieran Tierney were spotted at the training ground after being sidelined. They could both return to the squad for Wednesday night’s game at St Johnstone; another timely gain for Martin O’Neill.