Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers has delivered a hugely encouraging update on defender Alistair Johnston as his side prepares for their Europa League clash with Braga at Celtic Park.
The Canadian international has been sidelined since picking up a hamstring injury, missing several key fixtures, but Rodgers revealed that Johnston is closing in on a return to full training.
“We’ve really only got Alistair Johnston out,” Rodgers explained on Celtic TV. “Ali will join us probably the week leading into Dundee, after the international break. But he’s working really well.”
That timeline would see Johnston back in contention later this month, when Celtic resume their domestic campaign against Dundee following the October international break. While Rodgers is unlikely to throw him straight back into the starting XI after weeks on the sidelines, the news will still come as a welcome boost to the squad.
In his absence, Anthony Ralston and 19-year-old Colby Donovan have stepped in at right-back. Donovan in particular has caught the eye, impressing in recent matches against Red Star Belgrade and Partick Thistle, though Ralston reclaimed his spot in the starting XI for last weekend’s draw with Hibs.
With Celtic looking to build momentum in both Europe and the Premiership, Johnston’s imminent return strengthens Rodgers’ defensive options at a key stage of the season.
For now, the Hoops must focus on Braga on Thursday before hosting Motherwell at the weekend, but Johnston’s progress ensures there is further reason for optimism heading into the break.
