A Celtic star has been recognised for his exploits at the FIFA World Cup.
It’s the tournament that always brings out the stars in their numbers, and this year’s edition has delivered, with the Hoops still having players competing for a place in the last eight.
Auston Trusty and Alistair Johnston remain, hoping to fight for a place in the last eight for the USA and Canada, who are co-hosts alongside Mexico.
Six other players represented their countries, but unfortunately couldn’t progress as far as the defensive duo.
Amongst Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland, Celtic’s Alistair Johnston has taken his place in transfermarkt’s Team of the Group Stage.
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Johnston has played every minute of Canada’s four games so far.
The co-hosts have won three of their four games and booked their spot in the Round of 16 with a last-gasp win over South Africa.
And Johnston has been one of the tournament’s most consistent performers.
Another detail will catch the eye of Celtic supporters. Alongside each player in Transfermarkt’s XI is their current market valuation, with Johnston listed at €8 million.
That figure feels well below where many supporters would place him.
The 27-year-old has not only continued to impress for Canada, but he has established himself as one of Celtic’s most dependable players since arriving from CF Montréal in January 2023.
His displays in Glasgow have been remarkably consistent. Whether under Ange Postecoglou, Brendan Rodgers or Martin O’Neill, Johnston has rarely let his standards slip, becoming one of the first names on the teamsheet whenever he is fit.
Last season only reinforced his importance.
After returning from a lengthy injury lay-off, Johnston slotted straight back into the side as Celtic secured another Premiership title before completing the domestic double by lifting the Scottish Cup. It did not take long to see what had been missing during his absence. His quality, intensity and reliability immediately lifted the team.
Celtic clearly recognised his value when they handed him a new five-year contract in November 2024, keeping him tied to the club until 2029.
That deal leaves Celtic in a strong position should interest arrive from elsewhere in Europe following another impressive international tournament.
It would take a substantial offer before the club even considered parting with one of their most important players.
With Martin O’Neill already facing a significant rebuild this summer, losing Johnston is the last thing Celtic need. Every squad has players who eventually move on, but there is little appetite for that conversation right now.
Nine trophies after arriving in Glasgow, Johnston has become far more than a dependable full-back. He is one of the leaders in this Celtic side and, on current form, it is difficult to picture the team lining up without him when the new season gets underway.
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