BRENDAN RODGERS praised Alistair Johnston’s “phenomenal work ethic” as the Canadian international signed a lucrative new contract until the summer of 2029.
The consistent right-back hit the ground running at Celtic immediately after arriving from MLS club CF Montreal in January 2023.
With transfer speculation surrounding Croatian defender Josip Juranovic at the time, Ange Postecoglou pitched Johnston into the cauldron of a Glasgow derby and the new Bhoy performed admirably in the 2-2 draw at Ibrox.
Juranovic was sold to Union Berlin before the end of the transfer window and the new Bhoy sealed his place in the top side as they went on to complete the domestic treble.
Rodgers inherited Johnston when he returned in June last year and the reliable performer has played consistently with Anthony Ralston acting as his deputy.
SITTING DOWN ON THE JOB…Alistair Johnston (extreme right) celebrates with his Celtic’s team-mates after the 5-0 win at Kilmarnock on May 15 sealed the club’s third successive title.
The Hoops gaffer said: “It is fantastic news for the club and our fans that Ali has agreed this new contract.
“In a relatively short period of time he has established himself as a fantastic player for Celtic, showing real quality and just delivering performance after performance for us, week in, week out.
“He has a phenomenal work ethic and attitude, brilliant hunger and positivity, such an honest love for the game and a real desire to improve in everything he does.”
Rodgers, speaking to the Celtic website, added: “These are the qualities which make a great player and he has certainly been that for Celtic.
“Everyone at the club felt it crucial that we extend Ali’s contract with Celtic and I am delighted that we have been able to do this.”
Johnston is preparing for his 80th appearance for the champions in the Premiership encounter against Hearts at Tynecastle tomorrow night.
