Celtic to reportedly leave out Mikey Johnston in France

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Celtic reportedly won’t play Mikey Johnston against Rennes on Thursday night.

The Hoops youngster was injured on international duty last week. He then failed to play a part in any of yesterday’s 1-0 success at Hamilton.

It initially looked as though he could’ve been getting saved for the trip to France this week. However, according to the Scottish Sun, Celtic won’t risk the Scotland under-21 international in their Europa League opener.

Against Hamilton, Mohamed Elyounoussi took Johnston’s place. He had a lively first-half, and even managed the assist for James Forrest’s winner. It was the Norwegian internationalist’s first outing for the club since his loan move from Southampton was completed.

But it’s a blow for Celtic to potentially have Johnston out of their Europa League opener. He was extremely lively at Ibrox, and has started the season in good form.

Mohamed Elyounoussi to get the nod vs Rennes?

It’s a seriously interesting decision Neil Lennon now has to make. Elyounoussi didn’t let anyone down in South Lanarkshire yesterday. Therefore, it could be that he gets another chance to impress against Rennes.

Celtic aren’t exactly littered with alternatives who have proved themselves to be good enough. Lewis Morgan and Jonny Hayes are available if necessary. Meanwhile, Scott Sinclair is also there if Lennon wants to put his trust in him.

But Elyounoussi would seem the logical shout. He looked sharp at Hamilton yesterday, and has clearly been keeping himself fit despite making just 19 appearances last season for Southampton.

Question marks will, however, now be asked of just how long Johnston will indeed miss. It doesn’t seem to be a  severe issue, but Celtic clearly want to be careful about it.

Johnston performed extremely well at Ibrox a couple of weeks ago too – effectively cementing his place as the club’s number one left-winger.

But Elyounoussi is now getting his chance to put some pressure on him for his spot. A good performance from the loan star in France and it’ll finally see the Johnston vs Elyounoussi heat up.