Overnight, the news that Celtic defender Alistair Johnston had exited the international match between Canada and the United States due to a hamstring issue sparked fears of a significant injury.
Johnston was substituted off after just 25 minutes in Canada’s win over their continental rivals, albeit under his own power and apparently not in much pain.
The right-back has been in excellent form for Celtic at the start of the 2024/25 season, and the thought of him sitting on the sidelines for an extended period is a worry.
Anthony Ralston provides backup but can’t perform at the level the Canadian reaches.
Thankfully, the news is looking better this evening after Canada boss Jesse Marsch suggested his substitution was more of a precaution than a serious issue.
Jesse Marsch on Alistair Johnston’s injury
Marsch said [The Scottish Sun]: “Alistair said he felt a little bit of tightness in his hamstring and he felt it was smarter to step out.
“If you go back to the Holland game in June, he also did that and he knows his body.
“From that game, he was able to recover and play against France a few days later, so let’s hope it’s a similar type situation. I am hopeful that he will be okay.”
Celtic must be careful with Johnston this season
Johnston has taken a pleasing approach here. Knowing it was just a friendly match between the countries, he’s opted to save himself for more serious challenges ahead having already given so much to Canada this year.
He went the extra mile to play a significant role in their extended Copa America run after another long season with Celtic. Barely getting a summer break, he’s fired right into a new campaign and has been playing regularly.
The Bhoys must be careful with managing his game time over the coming period. We don’t want him to pick up a muscle problem and fatigue or overwork can be contributing factors.
Johnston will be desperate to play as many Champions League matches as he can, which may be a reason why he’s held his hand up here and told Canada staff he had to come off.
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