Celtic winger Mikey Johnston scored his second goal for the Republic of Ireland on Monday evening. It was the first time the 24-year-old had started this season, and he did admit post-match he was a bit rusty.
This didn’t seem to stop him, though, because he won the Man of the Match award. This, along with a goal, made for a solid night’s work for Johnston.
After the action came to an end, the quadruple-treble-winner revealed his manager Brendan Rodgers dropped him a text pre-match. He said (Football Scotland): “I am just working my way behind the scenes to try and get my opportunity. The manager [Rodgers] has got tough decisions to make, he’s got wingers he’s brought in for a few million and it’s up to me to get into the team. I’d imagine he’d take a bit of interest. He texted me before the game, so I think he’s keeping tabs on it.”
There is undoubtedly a wealth of competition in the wide areas at Celtic at the moment. If Johnston works hard enough and proves his capabilities, he will get an opportunity.
The message from his manager was classy and would have certainly given the player extra motivation. It also displays that Rodgers cares about all of his players, and will give them all opportunities.
Johnston has missed some of this season through injury but he is working back up to fitness. He knows it is down to himself to get back into the team: “I know what I have to do to get into the team and obviously he’s got decisions to make, but ultimately it’s up to me.”
Yes up to mikey Rodgers will pick him if he trains well he will get his chance to play if he shows his intent you have a fight to get into squad and its good you relise that listen to Rodgers instruction and game plan he has one of the best wing players coaching him in the Celtic set up no excuses if you stay fit