After the stumble that was the loss to Borussia Dortmund, Celtic are absolutely flying once again. Last weekend, they won 6-0 against Aberdeen in the Scottish League Cup semi-final in what was a statement performance. Brendan Rodgers' side backed that up with a 3-1 win over RB Leipzig in the Champions League. They now have seven points from the first four games and are in a very good spot to make it to the next phase of the competition.
One player who has been key to Celtic's success this season is Alistair Johnston. The Canadian international had not been at his best in the previous campaign and many questioned whether he is someone who does not fit Rodgers' style of football.
All those fears seem to have been misplaced. Johnston has actually taken his game up a few levels. Not only has he been solid defensively but he also has 8 goal contributions to his name in this campaign, four goals and assists each. That is impressive output for a full-back.
He is believed to have more than three years left on his current deal. But it looks like Celtic are ready to reward the Canadian international's performances by handing him a new one.
Celtic in advanced talks and close to agreeing new deal
As reported by the Daily Record, Celtic are close to agreeing a new contract with Johnston. Discussions have advanced significantly and the club have tabled a deal that will hand him a significant increase in salary and will also increase the length.
Someone like Johnston certainly should be rewarded. He seems like the kind of player who could remain at Celtic for years to come.
The left-back situation remains less certain. Greg Taylor and Alex Valle, on loan from Barcelona, seem to be in a competition for the starting spot right now.