Celtic could only manage a goalless draw against Kairat Almaty in the first leg of their Champions League qualifier play-off at Parkhead. The Hoops had entered the tie as the favourites but after this result, one will have to consider the Kazakh side as the more likely of the two to go through. In fact, we have seen the Scottish champions stumble and fail in similar situations on numerous occasions in the past.
The result was not Celtic's only worry coming out of the Kairat game either. Another was the situation of Alistair Johnston.
Johnston is a key part of this Celtic team and he had to be stretchered off against Kairat. Brendan Rodgers did not sound positive about the injury either, which is believed to be a hamstring issue.
There is a possibility that Johnston could spend extended time out on the sidelines, even though the extent of his injury is not clear yet. One would hope that it is not a serious matter but if it turns to be, then the Scottish champions should look to bring in a replacement. Anthony Ralston is a decent backup option but he cannot be relied upon to be the starter for any extended period of time.
Celtic tipped to sign Scottish international after Alistair Johnston's injury
67 Hail Hail have suggested Celtic to have a look at Sturm Graz’s Max Johnston, who is available for £2m. They believe he is 'the ideal replacement'.
Of course, the best-case scenario would be for Johnston's injury to be a minor one and for him to be back on the pitch as soon as possible. That being said, Celtic should be looking at options, in case they do need to make a move.
It is safe to say that Celtic fans won't be confident about the club's willingness to bring in a replacement, even if the Canadian international has to spend a significant amount of time recovering on the sidelines. That is a result of the lack of ambition we have seen from the Hoops in this summer transfer window.
As for the Sturm Graz right-back, he is a man in demand right now. As reported by Anthony Joseph this morning, Derby County have made a third bid to sign Johnston. The latest offer includes a fee of £2m, with improved add-ons, for the Scotland international.
So, if Celtic are to have a chance of signing Johnston this summer, they will need to move quickly. Do not count of that happening.