Brendan Rodgers has confirmed that Alistair Johnston is in line for a return to action against Aberdeen on Wednesday night, in what is a timely boost for Celtic ahead of the Scottish Cup final later this month.

The Canadian international has been missing in recent matches through injury, sitting out the trip to Ibrox and this afternoon’s 3-1 win over Hibernian. His absence was felt at Ibrox, where Celtic had to rely on Anthony Ralston on the right side of defence. However, Rodgers now expects Johnston to be available for the midweek trip to Pittodrie as the Hoops aim to maintain momentum ahead of the cup final against Aberdeen.

As the season reaches the final weeks, Rodgers spoke about the need to keep the players fresh and manage their fitness. After a long campaign, he wants to make sure that key players are not just healthy but also ready to perform well.

He said: (TCW), “It’s just that on the back of such a long, long season, and having the freshness, and obviously we’ll have Alistair Johnson, he’ll be back then for Wednesday as well. So yeah, I just think it’s keeping the freshness in the team.

“I want the target to arrive at the Scottish Cup final with as many of the players, got minutes in their legs, and then that gives us an opportunity to choose the team and a bench to win.”

Johnston’s return is good news for Rodgers, who wants the whole squad to be ready and in good shape for the Cup final at Hampden. With games coming quickly, Rodgers is focused on making sure important players like Johnston are fit and playing well.

Celtic’s next game is at Pittodrie, where Johnston is likely to be part of the squad. After that, the focus will shift to St Mirren on trophy day before the Cup final, with Rodgers aiming to pick his strongest possible team for the big match.