Mikey Johnston is hoping his injury problems are behind him and he can have a productive 2021/22 season at Celtic.
Johnston missed much of last year due to injury and fitness problems. He made just two starts for club. Both of those came in heavily altered lineups in the wake of the Dubai debacle.
However, he looked sharp against Charlton Athletic on Saturday and is working hard to push his way into Ange Postecoglou’s plans.
Speaking to the official website, he said: “It’s been tough training, obviously getting used to the way the manager wants to work, but it’s been good, it’s been different and it’s been a great week.
“Obviously I’ve missed a lot of game-time recently, so it’s good to get the game-time into the legs again, and just get the fitness – that’s what pre-season is for.
“I want to get more game-time and get more fitness under my belt. I’ve missed a lot of game-time so this is a perfect opportunity for me to get back going again.”
Johnston has 20 direct goal contributions in 59 games for Celtic, which isn’t too bad when you consider a lot of his game time has come at a young age and off the bench.
However, now 22, this season really does have the feeling of a ‘make-or-break’ one for him. The onus is on him to prove he can be the consistent attacking presence we need on the left flank.
We don’t really have other viable options at the moment.
His ability and skill are undeniable in my opinion. His natural talent is often cited by his teammates. Fitness and physicality have been the big barriers for him, two problems that can hopefully be overcome with hard work.
Postecoglou won’t settle for passengers this season, so it’s time to see what Johnston is made of.
In other news, Nigel Adkins praises Celtic after Charlton friendly; hails ‘magnificent’ moment.
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