Ange Postecoglou already has plans to bring back Celtic loanee

Celtic ended up strengthening their squad further in the summer, all across the pitch. This meant added competition for first-team places though and some players were not expected to get much of a look in. As a result, sending them away on loan was seen as the perfect solution. Mikey Johnston is one such player.

Johnston left Celtic in the summer to join Vitoria Guimaraes on a season-long loan deal. And it was certainly the right decision for all parties involved, despite the youngster’s unquestionable talent.

Given that Johnston had dealt with several injuries over the last three seasons, he had fallen down the pecking order at Celtic and had not played much football at the club. Thus, a temporary stay at Vitoria SC was a chance to start with a clean slate and rediscover his form.

Over the last few weeks, Johnston has certainly started to make his presence felt in Portugal. Such have been his glittering displays that he has earned himself comparisons with Lionel Messi from teammates and the Portuguese media, and the nickname ‘Mini Messi’.

Loanee set for a Celtic return next summer

As reported by A Bola (via Sport Witness), Johnston went to Portugal to get fit and play regularly at a competitive level. However, his stay will be a short-term one. At the end of the season he will return to Glasgow.

Thus, it is safe to say that Celtic have a long term plan for Johnston. And it is a great thing to see, that they have not given up on his incredible talents yet.

While coming through the Celtic youth ranks, Johnston was expected to be a first-team superstar in the future and a 20-goal winger. Despite a bright start at the senior level as well, injuries have prevented him from reaching his full potential. Hopefully, the loan spell at Vitoria will turn his career around.