Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has welcomed the confidence coming from Mikey Johnston but has urged the winger to prove himself on the training pitch and in matches.
Johnston made just his third appearance of the season on Tuesday night away to Lazio in the UEFA Champions League.
After the match, he expressed a desire to contribute more and stated he could make a difference to Celtic performances.
The Republic of Ireland international said [Football Scotland]: “I feel as if I can make a difference in the team. I’ve been away a while but I have got my momentum back and my confidence back. There’s definitely competition for places. I know what I can offer the team.”
Brendan Rodgers issues challenge to Mikey Johnston
Speaking ahead of this weekend’s game away to St Johnstone, Rodgers was clear in response. That’s the kind of confidence he wants his players to have but they have to back it up.
The Celtic boss said [Daily Record]: “That’s what you want to hear! But they get a chance every day in training and in the games. You do your talking on the pitch. That’s where you’re judged.”
Johnston is at something of a crossroads in his Celtic career. Recently admitting that he could look to make an exit in the January transfer window to get more regular minutes, there is still a chance for him to force his way into the team over the next few weeks.
Injuries to Daizen Maeda and Liel Abada have left the Celtic squad stretched with new signings Hyunjun Yang and Marco Tilio yet to cement themselves as trusted regulars.
It’ll be interesting to see what he can do in upcoming games. If he continues to struggle with an end product, it may be best for all parties that he pursues a career elsewhere. As Rodgers alludes to, it’s up to him to prove himself.
In other news, The latest Celtic return timeline for Reo Hatate.
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