Celtic have missed Alistair Johnston, but his absence appears to be coming to an end.
Johnston was sidelined until November after suffering an injury in the game against Kairat Almaty.
Colby Donovan has stepped up in his absence, following Anthony Ralston’s injury, and could potentially become the natural backup.
Jesse Marsch, Canada’s manager, said Johnston is close to returning, but the right-back has not revealed when he will play again.
Alistair Johnston offers a Celtic fitness update.
The 27-year-old suggested on Instagram that his return will be sooner rather than later, and in an exclusive interview with Celtic TV, he revealed when he would be back.
He stated: “It’s been a few months since I’ve been out there, but I’ve been well. I’ve had no setbacks, which is good.
“We’re getting close, but we won’t put a timetable on it. But, sure, I’m feeling great.
“I’ve got a lot of things marked on my calendar that I’d like to go and participate in again. We’ll see if the body can keep up with the head on that level. There’s a huge block of games coming up.
Celtic’s record without Alistair Johnstone
The Hoops have played a number of games since Johnston’s injury in the Champions League play-off first leg, with different degrees of success.
Since then, Celtic has played nine games and advanced to the semi-finals of the Premier Sports Cup, but they struggle in Europe.
They were relegated to the Europa League after losing to Kairat on penalties, and they also played in a goalless Glasgow Derby.
There isn’t much longer to wait, and his homecoming will be exciting for everyone.
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