Will Mikey Johnston return from injury today for Scotland under-21s?

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There’s a huge game at under-21 level today as Czech Republic vs Scotland is set to go ahead at 4pm.

However, all eyes are surely on whether Mikey Johnston manages to make some form of return.

Johnston has been injured over the last month after September’s Glasgow Derby win over Rangers. Johnston played a key role in that success. However, he hasn’t been able to build on the performance as of yet.

But it was surprising to see Mikey called up for the Scotland squad this month given his troubles. He hasn’t played in well over a month, and is surely struggling for match-sharpness.

Johnston surprisingly didn’t feature in Thursday’s 0-0 draw at home to Lithuania. It was a bit of a shock considering Scotland called him up to the squad. You would’ve thought that him being given the call was a nod to him potentially being fit for these matches.

However, the winger wasn’t even on the bench against Lithuania either. He didn’t make the matchday squad at all, and now it’ll be interesting to see if he’s named in the team later on this afternoon.

Scotland could really do with three points to get back on track in their Euro under-21 qualification campaign.

Call-up could end up being a waste of time

It will be disappointing if Johnston isn’t playing some part later on today. Injury is also the only reason he wouldn’t make the squad, as he’s one of the best players at under-21 level.

But if he doesn’t feature in any shape or form, then you have to say the whole call-up has been a waste of time. Johnston could’ve easily stayed back at Lennoxtown and continued rebuilding his fitness levels there.

There have also been no reports that the winger has pulled out of international duty either. It appears that he’s with Scot Gemmill’s side for the crunch matches.

As Celtic fans, here’s hoping that he was being rested on Thursday night for this huge clash with the Czechs. It would be ideal to get him back out onto the pitch before the internationals end.

Celtic return to action on Saturday with a massive home clash against Ross County. If Johnston doesn’t feature for Scotland today, you have to have him as doubtful for the Staggies clash.

Celtic fans should keep their eyes peeled on the starting XI later on this afternoon. But considering he’s been called up and hasn’t dropped out, surely he’s in line for some form of game-time?