Martin O’Neill Confirms Celtic Star Set to Make Long-Awaited Return

Celtic are set to welcome Alistair Johnston back into the squad for tomorrow’s game against Falkirk, with Martin O’Neill confirming the right-back is ready to be involved again after a long spell out.

It has been a frustrating season for Johnston. He started the campaign as first choice, played the opening league matches, then dropped out through injury. Since then, Celtic have had to adjust on the right side of defence, often without the balance he usually brings.

That has shown in certain games. Without a natural right-back holding his position and covering wide areas, Celtic have at times been forced to protect that side differently. The winger ahead has had to track back more, which changes how quickly the team can break forward.

Tomorrow’s match against Falkirk now offers a chance to reintroduce him. Even if he does not start, his presence in the squad gives O’Neill another option late in the game, especially if Celtic need to control wide areas or protect a lead.

He said: (TCW), “Well, Alistair Johnston is coming back. I’m hoping that he will be in the squad tomorrow.

“So that’s good news for us. Yeah, we’ve got… We’re getting stronger in that sense. Of course, we’ve missed the big players throughout the course of the year.

“But nothing can be done about that. But we’re looking forward to it. Let’s give it a go.“

Johnston’s return affects more than just one position. When he plays, Celtic can push their right winger higher, knowing there is cover behind. That allows the team to stretch the pitch and create more space through the middle.

It also helps in defensive transitions. Falkirk will look to break quickly when they win the ball, and having a full-back who can recover ground quickly reduces that threat.

With games running out, every selection call matters. Johnston’s availability gives Celtic a more natural shape at the back heading into a fixture where control could be tested if the game stays tight.

After months on the sidelines, simply being back in the matchday squad changes the options. Whether it is from the start or off the bench, his return gives Celtic something they have not had for most of the season on that side of the pitch.