Struggling Celtic player sends message to Brendan Rodgers

Brendan Rodgers has a difficult job at Celtic right now. The squad size is not ideal and there are way too many players in certain positions. It would make sense for the club to part ways with some in the upcoming January transfer window. But at the same time, it is also important to make sure that they do not let go of a good player without giving him a proper chance.

Just look at Liam Scales for example. He was expected to leave in the summer and it was most probably the number of injuries at centre-back that prevented an exit from happening. Over the last few months, he has established himself as one of Celtic’s most important players.

One player whose future at Celtic is in doubt is Mikey Johnston. He does not appear to be a big part of Rodgers’ plans and leaving in January might be a possibility.

Johnston might not be getting chances at Celtic, but he is shining at the international level with the Republic of Ireland national team. He put in a Man of the Match performance against New Zealand during the ongoing break.

Struggling Celtic player sends message to Brendan Rodgers

As reported by the Daily Record, Johnston said when asked if his performance could be a message to the Celtic boss:

"“It could do. I’ve obviously not scored or assisted which is what I wanted to do but getting man of the match is nice. I enjoyed myself, and playing in an Ireland shirt, I love it at the moment.”"

Johnston’s talent has never been in doubt. But he does need some consistent game time at Celtic to show what he can do and if he is good enough to have a role in the team.

Rodgers might have the perfect chance to test Johnston over the coming weeks. Both Daizen Maeda and Liel Abada are expected to remain out for some time, and Celtic do not have a set starting winger other than Luis Palma.

Could this be a ‘Liam Scales moment’ for Johnston? Or will he continue to remain on the bench moving forward?