Celtic’s latest signing, Alistair Johnston, is gearing up for his arrival at the club after becoming Ange Postecoglou’s second piece of winter business.
The 24-year-old is expected to join up with his new Hoops teammates in the coming days as he starts to settle into life at Parkhead [Celtic FC].
It has been a busy few weeks for Johnston after competing at the 2022 World Cup out in Qatar with Canada.
The defender featured in all three of his nation’s games for the entire 90 minutes, as they suffered defeats to Belgium, Croatia and Morocco in Group F.
Shortly after Canada’s first World Cup campaign since 1986, Johnston’s move to Parkhead from MLS side Montreal Impact was announced.
Signing a five-year deal with the club, the right-back was delighted to get the deal over the line and is set to officially become a Celtic player on the 1st of January.
However, before he can make his competitive debut in 2023, Johnston will be allowed to join up with his new teammates.
On Monday afternoon, he will also be officially introduced to the Celtic support, with the club arranging media appearances for the defender. Several fan media representatives will also be present.
After the conclusion of the World Cup, Johnston has been able to enjoy some time off in Italy, and many Celtic fans will have noticed this on the new recruits’ Instagram page.
Johnston gears up for first Paradise visit with new Celtic addition on the way.
As he gears up for his arrival in Glasgow next week, Johnston has taken to social media to joke about his time off before his first visit to Paradise.
Posting several pictures of his time on holiday, the Canadian stated, “So from what I’m being told … this ISN’T paradise?? Seems pretty decent, to be fair.”
Johnston’s former Montreal Impact teammate and ex-Celtic midfielder, Victor Wanyama, quickly responded to the post by saying, “Paradise is where you will be playing 🍀”.
Wanyama played a role in explaining why a move to Glasgow would be a good one for Johnston. So, I am sure the pair will be remaining close through their Celtic links, despite not being teammates anymore.
It is fantastic that the recruitment team have been able to get the right-back in so quickly, and he will join fellow January signing Yuki Kobayashi in getting up to speed at Lennoxtown.
As mentioned, supporters will be able to hear from the defender for his first media appearance this Monday. So, it will be good to hear what Johnston has to say about the move.
Before signing for Celtic, Johnston is likely to have heard plenty of stories about Celtic Park, and he won’t have to wait much longer to get his first taste of Paradise.
In other news, The important next step for Celtic prospect set for January return.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
