Marvin Compper labels Celtic youngster as a ‘big talent’

He may have been a figure in the shadows but Marvin Compper saw enough from the sidelines to label the Celtic youngster as a ‘big, big talent’.

Compper agreed he was a failure himself in his time at Celtic. But in conversation with the Glasgow Herald recently he spoke highly of Mikey Johnston and other Celtic players.

The youngster has impressed in the opportunities that he has received at Parkhead. But he has also struggled with multiple injuries in his short career.

Focussing first on Johnston:

"“He is a player who can make a difference, can win a game for a team, just like that”"

Compper praised Johnston for his natural instinct and spoke about other players telling him how difficult Johnston is to play and defend against. It looks as though Marvin’s time with the reserves means he’s had to rely on other players telling him this. But he did say he’d spent plenty of time talking with Johnston and others, so he should know him well.

Compper was also talking generally about how he brought his experience to Celtic and helped the squad. He explained more on that in respect of his conversations with Johnston. Recognising his great dribbling skills, Compper called on Johnston to find more end product through assists and shots. He encouraged that in those locker room discussions.

He spoke highly of Ajer, Edouard and Karamoko Dembele too. He reckons young Dembele also has a great future and is a huge talent in Europe at his age. Though Compper reckons he needs to develop further and become stronger:

"“He has time, he needs to become a man on the pitch. Skill-wise, no question.”"

His stand out was Johnston though:

"“Because he’s a homegrown player he’s a big, big talent”"

Good news for Celtic fans who already respect Johnston’s talent is that he recently signed a new 5 year deal at Celtic. Until his injury against St. Johnstone he was turning in some great performances and goals having got back in the squad for selection again. He could be a key player for 10 in a row.