Neil Lennon had plenty of positives that came out of today’s 2-0 win against Kilmarnock, but one of the biggest was Mikey Johnston’s energetic cameo.
Lennon had been saying in the build-up to today’s game that Johnston had been back in training but that he would likely only be involved in short outings for the time being (Daily Record).
He backed that up by bringing Mikey on for the closing minutes this afternoon, but Johnston wasn’t content to just run around and get some cardio in. In fact, on two occasions he came close to making something happen for the Hoops.
First off, the tricky winger went on a mazy run just outside the penalty area that resulted in a shot being fired over the crossbar. Moments later, he combined superbly down the right side with Kris Ajer and Ryan Christie as he found space in the box. However, he didn’t receive the ball back after initially working it into a good area for his team-mates.
Even at the death, Johnston was looking desperate to take a late free-kick that Christie blazed over. There was such a hunger about him this afternoon that you have to say was absolutely sensational to see.
Mikey brings something we currently don’t have
It’s the one thing we’ve lacked in recent weeks – pace down the flanks. Sure, Mohamed Elyounoussi has plenty of technique and showed that once again today. But how often will you see Moi pick up the ball, charge at his man and take him on? It’s exactly what Mikey does every time he gets the chance.
If that was the level of performance he’s putting in for his first match back in the senior ranks, goodness knows what he’ll be producing in a few weeks’ time.
Today was big for Celtic. Shane Duffy was on fire whilst the likes of David Turnbull, Ismaila Soro, and Conor Hazard all staked their claim to stay in the side. But Johnston’s return today cannot be overlooked.
We’re talking about a winger who, at the peak of his powers, can dismantle any full-back in Scotland. Yes, even those that wear blue shirts. Given he’s building himself up almost a month before the next Glasgow derby is also big for Lennon.
This just feels like a turning point for us in terms of our own performances. Things are finally starting to look up after a covid-stricken start to the season. It feels brilliant to be saying that after a couple of really difficult months.
Hopefully, Johnston can start playing more and more of a part as the games go on. He certainly has the quality to get himself more minutes. His return today is a big boost for our options.
In other news, Lennon unfortunately made a worrying comment about next week’s Scottish Cup final.
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