Celtic have been superb this season. Their recent form, before the Scottish Cup final against Inverness CT, might have worried some fans. But one has remember that they already have a Premiership and League Cup double in the bag and have a historic treble in their sights. At the same time though, the focus always has to be on getting better.
While quite a few players have been linked with moves away, one would be hoping for the club to bring in some fresh faces in the summer as well. And one player who could be almost like a new signing is Mikey Johnston.
Johnston has always been considered as a huge talent. But his career at Parkhead was derailed due to a series of injuries. Now, he finds himself out on loan at Vitoria SC in Portugal.
This loan spell seems to be exactly what he needed though. He has been playing regular football and has managed to avoid any serious injuries as well. Now, it remains to be seen what the future holds for him at Celtic Park. The player himself seems to be looking to make a return to his boyhood team though.
Player confirms he wants Celtic return after great season
As reported by the Daily Record, Johnston said in an interview with Mailsport:
"“What happens next season isn’t really down to me. I’ve given it everything I’ve got over here and I’ve enjoyed it.“But if I can go back to Celtic and play, that’s definitely something I want to do. I’m 24 and this is the most games I’ve played in a season. I want to build on that, not go back the way.“I’d love to play for Celtic next season but we’ll have to wait and see. I’ve always thought I could play for the club on a regular basis. I’ve never felt I wasn’t good enough to be there.”"
Johnston certainly seems to be in a good space right now and definitely sounds confident. According to stats from Transfermarkt, he has made 29 appearances and played 1499 minutes of football, scoring 3 goals and providing 5 assists in the process.
Now, it is important for Johnston to build on this. If he does return to Celtic then it would be difficult for him to nail down a starting spot. But he can definitely have a role in the team. Especially if Liel Abada leaves in the summer, as many rumours have suggested.