Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has expressed immense satisfaction with Mikey Johnston’s recent performances during his loan at West Bromwich Albion, highlighting the winger’s growth and potential impact upon his return to Celtic.
Johnston, who has struggled to secure a consistent first-team spot at Celtic due to form and injuries, has rejuvenated his career at the Birmingham club, earning the Championship Player of the Month for March.
Rodgers spoke highly of Johnston during his Friday press conference with Celtic TV. “I’m absolutely delighted for Mikey. He’s a young player I always said I rated highly. It’s been a challenge for him the last couple of years in terms of injuries and having to go out on loan to play,” Rodgers said. He noted the specific instructions he gave Johnston before his loan: “I just said to him, ‘Prove that you’re fit. Prove you have the fitness level to sustain to train every day and be available for games.'”
Johnston has indeed proven himself to this point, with Rodgers acknowledging his progress before the loan and his impressive performances at West Brom. “To be fair to him he did that and by the end he was contributing for us. But he really needed games, he’s 24, he needed to get out and play.”
The Celtic academy product has not only managed to stay healthy but also stand out in a competitive league, which Rodgers believes is a testament to his inherent talent. “What he’s shown and demonstrating is no surprise. I’ve said it before he’s one of the best talents to come out of this academy. He’s quick, direct and can score goals,”
Johnston’s success at West Brom comes at a pivotal time as he enters the last year of his contract with Celtic.
Rodgers is optimistic about Johnston’s return: “For him to go there and get that award – with some outstanding players in the Championship – it shows how well he’s done. Hopefully he can continue with that and come back here to Celtic in the summer and feel energised, full of confidence and be ready to make an impact.”
Some Celtic fans believe the club should cash in on Mikey come the summer while his stock is high. If they keep him on and he doesn’t manage to make the breakthrough for Celtic then he leaves for Free in 12 months time.
