Alistair Johnston’s Celtic deal talks in focus as Andy Walker pits him with recent best

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Alistair Johnston has been one of the most consistent performers at Celtic over the last couple of seasons and talks over a new contract for the Canadian right-back are richly deserved.

The Bhoys are prepared to open discussions over fresh terms that would bring him in line with the highest earners at the club.

Providing a relentless amount of energy veering up and down the right-hand side, Johnston has established himself as a fan favourite who rarely falls below the high bar set by Brendan Rodgers.

Starting every game for Celtic this term, the 25-year-old has won 85.7% of his contested aerial duels and interceptions, while has chalked up a goal and assist apiece across five appearances in all competitions [Fotmob].

Endorsing recent developments, Andy Walker believes the former CF Montreal man is up there with the Bhoys’ recent best in his position.

Andy Walker on Alistair Johnston amid contract talks

Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show, Walker has compared Johnston’s impact to the impression Jeremie Frimpong and Josip Juranovic made while on the books at Celtic Park.

He explained: “Yeah, I think Celtic have had a succession of excellent right-backs in recent years. You go back to Jeremie Frimpong, who they sold for a pretty penny.

“Juranovic, I thought was excellent. Alistair Johnston, I think, is in the same category. He seems happy there, and if you want to extend his deal, good luck to him; I think he deserves it.”

Johnston deserves every bit of the adulation he is getting at Celtic and is definitely up there with the best right-backs the club have had in recent years.

With Anthony Ralston as the supporting cast, the reigning Scottish Premiership champions are secure in the position, and there is no need to tinker with the options at Rodgers’ disposal in the transfer market.

Not only is the Vancouver-born man a personable character, but he also embodies the mix of hard work, quality, and level-headedness needed to be successful in green and white.

Hopefully, confirmation of his extension can be wrapped up before too long. Johnston is a brilliant player to have around and Celtic fans will want his influence at the club for years to come.