Celtic winger Mikey Johnston has spoken out for the first time after completing his loan exit, joining Portuguese side Vitória de Guimarães.
The 23-year-old was heavily expected to make a temporary move this summer, having fallen down the pecking order under Ange Postecoglou.
Despite the likes of Jota, Daizen Maeda and Liel Abada being ahead of the winger, it appears Johnston is still highly rated at the club, signing a new one-year extension before completing his loan move on deadline day.
The Celtic academy graduate made an intriguing move, taking the decision to head abroad, and will spend the season playing in Portugal.
Speaking for the first time since his loan exit, Johnston expressed his excitement at the opportunity to play for a big club in Portugal, within a league that suits his style of play.
The Scotland under-21 internationalist also revealed the influence of current Celtic teammate Jota, who he spoke with ahead of his move to Vitória de Guimarães.
He said [VitoriaSC]: “It was an easy choice as soon as I learned of the club’s interest. It’s a big club, and so is the League. When I heard about the interest, I was very excited.
“I think it’s a league that fits me well. It’s a more technical football on which I base my style of play, and I look forward to getting started. I promise to always give everything and work hard to contribute to the team’s triumphs and score goals.
“I’m a creative player, I like to dribble, I like to make things happen and score goals. In the locker room, I’ll be a good influence, talk to everyone, I like to get along with everyone, I like to laugh, so I can’t wait to meet everyone.
“I know it’s a great club, often going to Europe. I spoke to friends who are here; they say it’s a great club; I spoke to Jota from Celtic, who also spoke very well of the club.”
The right time for a loan move for Mikey Johnston
Having struggled with injury issues and failing to nail down a regular spot in the side, heading out on loan this summer was the correct choice by Johnston and the club.
It is certainly an intriguing move, taking the decision to head abroad. But, at the same time, a very exciting one, in a league where the winger could thrive.
As mentioned, clearly, Johnston is a highly rated player at Parkhead and by Ange Postecoglou after signing a further contract extension.
So, going out and getting regular minutes at his loan side could help the tricky winger kick start his Celtic career once again.
I am sure the Parkhead faithful will be keeping a close eye on how the attacker gets on in Portugal, and wish him all the best for the season ahead!
In other news, Oliver Abildgaard reveals family connection to Celtic, clues in supporters on playing style.
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