Brendan Rodgers issues Celtic squad update with Alistair Johnston clarity ahead of Rangers clash

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Brendan Rodgers has delivered an update on the availability of his key stars as Celtic look to claim the Premier Sports Cup against Rangers this weekend.

Earlier today, Alistair Johnston’s absence at Lennoxtown set tongues wagging as speculation started to grow regarding whether he would be able to feature in Sunday’s final at Hampden.

During the week, the Canada international came off against Dinamo Zagreb with a hip flexor issue and was replaced by Anthony Ralston at Maksimir Stadium.

No other prominent injury worries have featured in pre-match build-up as Celtic look to claim the Premier Sports Cup for the first time since 2023.

Now, Brendan Rodgers has delivered an answer to the question on everyone’s lips as his side bid to bring home the first available silverware of the campaign.

Brendan Rodgers delivers Alistair Johnston latest in squad update

Speaking ahead of this weekend’s final, Rodgers revealed that Alistair Johnston is expected to make it in time to feature against Rangers, while there are no other major concerns across the squad.

He stated: “The squad is healthy. We expect Ali to be okay. He was out on the pitches this afternoon, so we should have everyone fit and available.

“(He’s enjoyed) an extra bit of recovery. Naturally, he’s been an outstanding player for us over the course of his time here, and in particular this season. He’s been instrumental in our work.

“Speaking to him earlier, and out on the pitch, he was fine, so we expect him to be okay.” 

Celtic all set for cup final tussle against Rangers

If Scottish Premiership form is anything to go by, Celtic head into this weekend with the tag of favourites amid their unbeaten start to the league campaign this term.

In contrast, Rangers languish in third position, albeit they have pulled themselves back into contention for second following Aberdeen’s recent struggles.

Position	Team	Played MP	Won W	Drawn D	Lost L	For GF	Against GA	Diff GD	Points Pts
1	CelticCeltic	15	14	1	0	44	4	40	43
2	AberdeenAberdeen	16	10	4	2	30	18	12	34
3	RangersRangers	15	10	2	3	27	9	18	32
4	Dundee UtdDundee Utd	15	6	6	3	22	15	7	24

Either way, recent result go out of the window when it comes to an occasion at Hampden. Cup finals are often stuffy affairs decided by the odd goal, so don’t be surprised if Celtic need to dig deep to claim a result.

The stage is set for the Bhoys to stake their claim for silverware. Now, the onus is on Rodgers and company to deliver a performance that can write themselves into the history books.