The international break is over and Celtic are set to return to action this weekend when they take on Hearts. Brendan Rodgers will want his team to continue their winning streak this season, as they have won all five of their games so far. In fact, they have yet to concede a single goal after four league matches.
Hopefully, both those streaks will remain alive by the time Celtic take to the pitch in midweek to kick off their Champions League campaign. It is difficult not to have an eye on that occasion but the Hoops must remain focused on the task at hand this weekend, which will be taking on a Hearts side that has not won a league game yet.
One of the major concerns for Celtic fans this week has been the fitness status of Alistair Johnston. The full-back had to be subbed off in the first half in the recent game between Canada and the United States.
Naturally, there was a worry that Johnston might have picked up an injury that would keep him out of action for a while. Of course, that would be bad news for Celtic, especially after the fantastic start that the full-back has made this season. Fortunately, it looks like the matter is not serious.
Brendan Rodgers addresses big Celtic injury worry ahead of Hearts game
The Canadian international has trained with his teammates. As reported by Glasgow Times, Rodgers said regarding the situation of Johnston:
"Jesse [Marsch] was sensible with Ali in terms of how he felt in the game. They took him off and sent him back. It was just a precaution, really.
"He had similar going into the Rangers game. We were able to protect him and he's travelled, gone away, felt a little bit of tightness, and [Canada] managed him really well.
"We brought him back and he's trained well."
That will be music to the ears of Celtic fans. Whether Johnston starts this weekend or not remains to be seen, but it is good to know that he is fine.
If Johnston does not start, Anthony Ralston will most likely take his place in the starting XI. The Scottish right-back gave a good account of himself during the recent international break as well, especially in the game against Portugal.