Alistair Johnston’s Canada stats show why Celtic simply cannot replace him

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Alistair Johnston did not register a goal or assist in Canada’s 2-0 win over Uzbekistan. Yet one look at the numbers explains exactly why Celtic value him so highly.

The defender featured for 45 minutes as Canada secured victory, producing the sort of performance that rarely dominates headlines but often proves vital to a team’s success.

Johnston’s influence was not measured by attacking returns. Instead, it came through the consistency, defensive reliability and ball progression that have become hallmarks of his game.

For Celtic supporters, there was plenty to like.

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Johnston showed the qualities Celtic rely upon most

Johnston’s game has never been built around flashy numbers. His value comes from doing the basics well and helping his side control matches in and out of possession.

Against Uzbekistan, the Celtic defender looked comfortable throughout his time on the pitch. He was regularly involved in play, helped Canada advance the ball and remained difficult to beat defensively.

The statistics paint a clear picture

• 45 minutes played
• 43 touches
• 19 of 28 passes completed (68%)
• 6 passes into the final third
• 1 successful dribble from 1 attempt
• 2 tackles
• 1 interception
• 4 of 5 ground duels won (80%)
• 0 fouls committed

The stats reinforce why Johnston remains so dependable

The figure that should catch Celtic supporters’ attention is Johnston’s six passes into the final third.

For a player who spent only 45 minutes on the pitch, that level of progression highlights exactly why coaches trust him so much in possession.

That is one of the qualities Celtic benefit from most. Johnston consistently combines defensive security with an ability to move his team up the pitch.

His work without the ball was equally impressive. Winning 80% of his ground duels reinforced why he remains one of Celtic’s most dependable defenders.

Johnston did not need a decisive attacking contribution to make his mark on the match. Canada’s victory served as another reminder that some of the most important performances come from players who quietly do everything right.

For Celtic, that is exactly why Johnston remains one of the first names on the team sheet.