It has been a frustrating season for Alistair Johnston so far.
After being tipped to be a leading figure in the Celtic dressing room, Johnston has spent most of the season on the treatment table.
He had an operation to help with an ongoing setback before suffering a setback in his first game back against Sturm Graz.
Thankfully, due to already knowing Wilfried Nancy, he has a good chance of being thrown straight back in, and has hinted at when we could see him back.
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Alistair Johnston injury update
Following the appointment of Nancy, Johnston spoke to Canadian outlet TSN to discuss reuniting with his former manager.
Also on the agenda was his return to the pitch.
A home World Cup would be heartbreaking for the 27-year-old to miss out on, and he is hoping to be back for the second half of the season.
“I’m doing well. I had to get surgery, but I am feeling much better now and hopefully, that will clear up any potential re-injury and I will be ready to go for the second half of the season, and then have a good lead-up to the World Cup,” he said.
Alistair Johnston reacts to Canada World Cup draw
Canada are one of the co-hosts for the 2026 World Cup, meaning that they qualified automatically.
He won’t face any of his Celtic teammates in the group stages, but is still expecting a tough fixture list.
“It’s not the best draw, it’s not the worst draw,” added the full-back.
“There are some difficult teams there. Switzerland have a number of players at a really high level. We are confident and have put together some really good performances.
“We feel we can keep clean sheets against top teams and feel we can go toe-to-toe with anyone. It’s important we make the most of our home crowd. It will be an unbelievable experience.”
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