Brendan Rodgers has picked his moment to talk up Celtic full-back Alistair Johnston, with his return from injury imminent.
The Canadian defender hasn’t featured yet under Rodgers, last playing for Celtic in June’s Scottish Cup final win over Inverness Caledonian Thistle.
Johnston has only featured in two of the side’s last nine competitive fixture but his return following ankle injury is now almost upon us.
He could feature this weekend against St. Johnstone, with a trip to Rangers and the UEFA Champions League group stage upon us soon after.
Rodgers hasn’t ruled out a return against Steven MacLean’s side on Saturday afternoon.
“People know his character and his personality,” he told The Herald when asked about a weekend appearance. “It has never changed. He’s stayed positive and got on with his work.
“He’s back earlier than expected – and that says it all. It shows how hard he has worked.
“He’s very determined to improve and develop as a player. He wants to continue to win. It will be good to work with him.”
Rodgers didn’t stop there either as he continued to praise Johnston, revealing that he has admired the former MLS right-back from afar.
“I remember seeing him at the World Cup,” he said. “He was outstanding for Canada. I thought at the time when he arrived in January it was a really good buy for Celtic.
“He’s a talented player and you get the sense from talking to him he’s very ambitious and committed. He wants to do well. It’s just been a real shame with the injury he’s had that he’s been out.
“But Alistair is a really strong boy and speaking to the staff and the players, he’s really highly rated here. I’m looking forward to seeing him more.”
Johnston will certainly be returning at an important time in our season. After Sunday’s cup defeat to Kilmarnock and the spree of recent defensive injuries, his experience and grit will be important for us.
We need to get back to winning ways this weekend and secure at least a draw at Ibrox eight days later.
Even having him back involved on Saturday would give everyone inside Celtic Park a bit of a boost. Let’s hope he’s back amongst it in typical fashion against the Saints.
In other news, the four Champions League playoff sides who could bring Celtic an on-pitch reward
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