Brendan Rodgers has confirmed that Alistair Johnston will be part of the Celtic squad for tomorrow night’s trip to Pittodrie, marking a welcome return for the Canadian international after a short spell on the sidelines.
Johnston missed the last two games—against Rangers and Hibernian—but is now fit and available again.
The timing couldn’t be better for Celtic, who face Aberdeen again in just 11 days’ time in the Scottish Cup Final at Hampden. The right-back’s return strengthens Rodgers’ options at a key point in the season, with the Irishman offering a brief but important update during his pre-match press conference.
He said: (Celtic FC YouTube), “Ali Johnston is back.”
In Johnston’s absence, Anthony Ralston stepped in and did his job well, even capping his recent run in the side with an assist in Saturday’s 3-1 win over Hibs at Celtic Park. While Ralston has provided reliable cover, having both players fit and pushing each other adds depth and competition to the position ahead of the cup final.
Johnston has been a regular in the team under Rodgers when he’s fit, giving the defence solidity and a brilliant attacking threat on the right side. His return comes at a big moment, with Celtic chasing a domestic treble after already winning the League Cup and wrapping up the Premiership title.
Celtic travel to Pittodrie aiming to keep their strong run going before finishing the league season at home to St Mirren on Trophy Day. Getting key players like Johnston back, and possibly Carter-Vickers soon, gives Rodgers the lift he needs as his team looks to end the season with more silverware—and do it in style.
