Celtic defender Alistair Johnston has never been one to shy away from speaking his mind, and his latest comments have caught attention well beyond the football pitch.

The Canadian full-back has responded to recent remarks made by US President Donald Trump, who has stirred tensions with his views on Canada.

11th January 2025; Victoria Park, Dingwall, Scotland: Scottish Premiership Football, Ross County versus Celtic; Alistair Johnston of Celtic gestures an apology to the fans at the end

Standing Up for Canada

Speaking to The Guardian, Johnston opened up about how Trump’s words have impacted his family and fellow Canadians. “I grew up in a family where education was put to the forefront. Football came second,” he said, emphasising that his upbringing instilled strong values beyond the game.

The right-back, known for his hardwork on the pitch, showed that same resilience off it as he addressed the growing unease among Canadians. “The current political climate is at the forefront of not just my mind but also my family back home. I hear a lot about the stress and the unease it’s put on them.”

Canada’s Strength and Unity

Johnston went on to highlight how the situation has brought Canadians closer together. “It’s been really powerful to watch and to see how united it’s made people,” he continued. “There’s such a level of respect we’ve had for Americans throughout history. But when you start to break that, you can see how strong the Canadians react.”

His words reflect the no-nonsense attitude that Celtic fans have come to admire. Whether it’s on the pitch defending for the Hoops or off it standing up for his country, Johnston has proven he’s not one to back down.

Soccer Football – Champions League – Celtic v Club Brugge – Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – November 27, 2024 Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers speaks with Alistair Johnston during a break in play REUTERS/Russell Cheyne

A Message of Respect

Despite the growing tensions, Johnston’s response was measured and dignified. “I think it sums up Canada: we treat everyone with respect but at the same time don’t take that respect, generosity for weakness.”

His comments will no doubt resonate with Celtic supporters, who appreciate a player willing to stand up for his beliefs. Whether he’s battling wingers at Celtic Park or speaking out on global issues, Johnston continues to show leadership both on and off the pitch.

3 COMMENTS

  1. Well said AJ. My respect for him just grows and grows. Trump is a … this is a family program. Let’s leave it at something not very nice… squared. HH

  2. Scotland and the uk should ban Trump from ever coming here and shut his golf courses down after Trump took putins side on the Ukraine war. I will be contacting my msg about this . Trump will start ww3. So much for the USA being the leader of the free world ha ha

  3. My granda has been wheelchair bound for 30 years or more. Earlier this week the rest of us were oot the back enjoying the sun when Trump came on the telly. Granda jumped up oot his chair and turnt the telly aff – we’re so proud. But now Starmer has cut his PIP so we’re putting him in a hame.

    Never trust a guy in a wheelchair wi dirty trainers, and never trust a world leader wi an orange heid. If it’s orange it’s a cnut

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