Brendan Rodgers doesn’t think there will be any lasting ill effects of the head knock that forced Alistair Johnston out of today’s Celtic match away to Hibernian.
Johnston had to be substituted off in the first half after the ball was blasted against his chin at close range, which sent him tumbling to the pitch.
He received treatment for a long time on the ground before attempting to play on. However, he was eventually forced off, looking dazed as he trundled off.
Providing an update to BBC Radio Scotland post-match, Rodgers said: “I just spoke to the medical team and they said he’s fine. It was just that moment he felt a wee bit funny. I think overall he’s fine.”
Celtic need to keep defender fit and firing
Johnston is a bit of a warrior defender and often puts his body on the line to keep the opposition at bay. On this occasion, he was attacking the other box, but showed real bravery to try and stop a cleared ball forward.
There’s a notable drop-off in the right-back position when Anthony Ralston fills in for Johnston so everyone will be hoping the Canadian recovers well over the next few days to take his place in the team at home to St Mirren on Wednesday night.
He’s been a superb signing and it’s still odd to think he’s only been at the club since January of this year. It feels like he has been around for a lot longer than that.
We’re going to need him to stay injury-free after ankle issues plagued his summer. He’s the kind of player that can help turn a draw like today’s into three points.
In other news, Brendan Rodgers reacts with “no excuse” verdict after rare dropped Celtic points.
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