ALISTAIR JOHNSTON could be out for about three months with the hamstring problem which saw him stretchered off in the first-half of the 0-0 draw with Kairat Almaty at Parkhead in midweek.
The Canadian international right-back’s involvement in the first leg of the Champions League play-off ended abruptly in the 32nd minute when he was replaced by Anthony Ralston.
Quizzed about the extent of the injury to Johnston, Brendan Rodgers answered: “Not great, he’ll probably be about 12 weeks.
“For Ali, we just want to make sure that we’re in a really good position in all competitions when he gets back.”
IN WITH A SHOUT…Anthony Ralston celebrates Celtic’s Premier Sports League Cup triumph at Hampden last December.
Ralston is likely to be in the No.2 position and the blow to Johnston will scupper any prospects of a loan move for Coby Donavan with Dundee and Ayr United both interested in the young full-back.
Rodgers admitted his “first look” was to the crocked defender from within and Donavan may get a place on the substitutes’ bench against David Martindale’s West Lothian outfit.
Rodgers also gave an update on other fitness concerns. at the champions.
The Irishman, speaking to BBC Scotland, added: “Adam Idah’s struggling with his knee while Auston Trusty could be out for a bit with a plantar fascia [foot]issue that he’s had.
“Daizen Maeda, we’ve probably had to use him more than we would’ve liked, but he’s okay. “
🚨 Celtic defender Alistair Johnston will be out for “about 12 weeks” with Brendan Rodgers looking internally for his replacement ⤵️
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) August 22, 2025
