Quite a few Celtic fans were taken by surprise when Hoops winger Mikey Johnston declared for Ireland just prior to the last international break.

The Vitoria Guimaraes loanee, who was born in Scotland, is eligible to play for Ireland due to one of his grandparents.

Johnston took full advantage of this eligibility although throughout his time as a footballer, former Celtic manager Neil Lennon has claimed he and his ex assistant Damien Duff were always attempting to persuade the 23 year old to switch international allegiances (Daily Record):

“Damien and I were pestering Mikey for months and months; saying ‘don’t play for Scotland, play for Ireland.

“I didn’t actually know until I watched the France game that he had joined up with Ireland. He’s a mercurial player, with good feet and good pace. From what I gather, his form in Portugal has been good and it’s been great to see him get senior caps.”

It appears that after a fair while, Johnston finally heeded the advice of his former coaches and declared for Ireland and it is fair to say that thus far, the switch has worked out.

He has only made two appearances for Stephen Kenny’s side but impressed in both with his vivacity and liveliness coming to the fore, such traits Lennon touched on.

In Portugal, Johnston has had a rather solid season up to this point and it will be intriguing to see what happens with him come the summer.

Ange Postecoglou is one for handing players opportunities and although he did to the winger last season, after a decent campaign on loan, the Irishman may well get another chance.