IT was a case of 10 and out for Mikey Johnston last season.
The 22-year-old left-sided wide Bhoy barely got into double figures for Celtic in a season that is best forgotten.
Johnston failed to score a solitary goal during an injury-ravaged campaign that disrupted the Scotland Under-21 international’s progress and kept him on the sidelines as the Hoops endured their first trophyless term in 11 years.
MAN ON A MISSION…Mikey Johnston is determined to make up for a disappointing season. Image courtesy Celtic TV.
But it’s a new ball game this time around for the exciting raider who is hoping to prove to Ange Postecoglou he can handle the rigours of facing FC Midtjylland in the Champions League second round qualifier in Glasgow a week ago tonight.
The youngster has been going through his paces in the club’s pre-season camp in Wales and he admitted: “It’s been tough training, obviously getting used to the way the manager wants to work, but it’s been good, it’s been different and it’s been a great week.
“Obviously, I’ve missed a lot of game-time recently, so it’s good to get the game-time into the legs again and just get the fitness – that’s what pre-season is for.
“Last year was hugely disappointing, but I’ve just got to pick myself up from where I was and just try to get going again. This year we want to be positive, we want to try and get on the front foot early doors.”
FOR MY NEXT TRICK…Mikey Johnston indulges in some ball juggling in the 2-1 Scottish Cup Final win over Hearts in May 2019.
Johnston, speaking to Celtic TV, added: “Playing in Europe is what everyone wants – the fans all want us there, so it could be a big bonus if we make the Champions League and that’s what we all want to do.
“Last year, it was a huge miss not having the fans – no-one can deny it, so this year it will be a huge lift to get everyone back in the stadium again and get a bit of normality.
“As a winger, if you’re beating someone, it gives the fans a lift, it gives you confidence and it can give the team confidence, as well.”
Johnston is on stand-by for another outing tomorrow night when Celtic play their third warm-up game against Bristol City. They have beaten third-tier clubs Sheffield Wednesday (3-1) and Charlton (2-1) in their previous matches.
