Alistair Johnston’s decision to join up with Canada underlines his commitment, but the facts show Celtic are taking a clear risk with his recovery.
Johnston has not played since October after another injury setback halted his season. His attempted return in Celtic’s win over Sturm Graz lasted just 26 minutes before breaking down again.
The Celtic defender was called up by Canada for the upcoming international games against Iceland and Tunisia.
With Johnston still not fit enough to take part, national boss Jesse Marsch reveals who made the decision for the Celtic defender to join up with the Canada camp.
When Alistair Johnston returns to fitness, would you pick him over Julian Araujo?
Jesse Marsch says Celtic defender ‘wanted’ Canada return
Marsch admits that he was delighted to see Johnston show up for the Canada camp, but he also admitted that it was the Celtic defender’s choice to make the gruelling journey to meet up with his international teammate.
Marsch told The Daily Record, “He said: “These two guys [Johnston and Moïse Bombito] I think, really wanted to be here … we felt they’re really important and we’ve been missing them.
“It’s good to have them.”
While Johnston will be delighted to meet up with his teammates, the long haul flight sure cannot be good for the Celtic star’s recovering hamstrings.
Hopefully the trip will have Johnston returning to Celtic brimming with confidence and fit to help the title defence when the domestic scene returns next weekend.
Celtic’s results without Alistair Johnston in the team
Celtic have suffered in Alistair Johnston’s absence and the results domestically and in Europe have proven that.
In the Europa League, Celtic won just three out of nine fixtures in UEFA’s second-tier competition. In the Scottish Premiership, all of the Hoops’ eight defeats happened while the Canadian was on the sidelines injured.
Celtic will welcome Johnston’s return when it comes, but the evidence shows this recovery has not been straightforward.
His willingness to push forward is clear, but the club must ensure that commitment does not come at the cost of another setback.
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