ALISTAIR JOHNSTON is targeting the Scottish Cup Final in his bid to make a comeback after limping out of the 1-0 semi-final win on Sunday.
The Canadian World Cup defender injured his right ankle in an accidental collision with Borna Barisic nine minutes after the interval and had to be replaced by Anthony Ralston.
There will be no quickfire return dates for Johnston and he will miss Sunday’s trip to Tynecastle to face Hearts where Ange Postecoglou’s side will win their second successive Premiership title if they secure three points.
MOMENT OF IMPACT…Alistair Johnston clashes with Ibrox defender Borna Barisic as they compete for a loose ball.
DOWN AND OUT…Alistair Johnston signals to the bench immediately after the clash with the Ibrox player.
Four league outings remain after the match in Edinburgh and the curtain will come down in what could be a memorable treble-winning campaign in the soccer showpiece against Inverness Caley Thistle at Hampden on Saturday June 3.
That will offer the most likely scenario for Johnston, bought from MLS outfit CF Montreal for £3.75million in January, to make a dramatic comeback to action.
The 24-year-old right-back, who has made a startling impact as successor to Union Berlin-bound Josip Juranovic, was seen on the Hampden pitch when his team-mates took a lap of honour following the victory over Michael Beale’s Ibrox team.
HOOPY HOBBLE…Alistair Johnston joins team-mates Aaron Mooy and Cameron Carter-Vickers in the aftermatch applause at Hampden – the venue earmarked for a return on June 3.
Johnston’s right leg was encased in a moon boot while he required crutches – but it didn’t stop him celebrating with his colleagues.
The enthusiastic back-four performer won his first honour at the Hoops in the 2-1 League Cup Final success over the Govan club in February – and he fully intends achieving a Hampden double early next month.
