Martin O’Neill has confirmed that Celtic defender Alistair Johnston has suffered a setback in his recovery, with scans revealing a hamstring tear.
Johnston had been closing in on a comeback before further tests were carried out this week. O’Neill, speaking ahead of the international break, admitted the news was disappointing for everyone at the club, with the defender now set for a longer spell on the sidelines.
The right-back has been one of Celtic’s most reliable performers since joining, offering consistency and fight on the flank. His absence has been felt, with Anthony Ralston stepping in during a demanding run of fixtures. The injury update now means O’Neill will need to plan without Johnston for the foreseeable future.
O’Neill’s words carried sympathy and respect for a player who’s impressed him since taking charge. The manager made clear how highly Johnston is rated inside the camp and how frustrating it’s been not to have him available during a crucial stretch of games.
He said: (TCW), “They had to wait a while for his hamstring, just to get a clear picture on it. Scans have shown a tear
“The other two lads, Osmand and Johnston, are having surgery on Tuesday so they are going to be out for a long time.”
“It’s really sad because everybody says he’s a rally, really good player.”
O’Neill’s update was blunt but compassionate. There was no hiding the disappointment in his tone, knowing how hard Johnston has worked to return and how big a blow this is for the squad.
The confirmation of a tear means a longer recovery process, with the medical team expected to take a cautious approach. Hamstring injuries of this type can take several weeks to heal properly, and O’Neill won’t risk rushing the defender back too soon.
It’s another setback in what’s been a tough spell for Johnston, who had only just started regaining rhythm before this latest blow. His determination and professionalism, however, have never been in doubt, and he’ll be desperate to return before the season hits its decisive stages.
For O’Neill, it’s a reminder of how thin the margins are at the top level. He’ll now rely on Ralston and other defensive options to fill the gap, but the manager made clear how much Celtic will miss Johnston’s presence, both as a player and as a character in the dressing room.
