Celtic have a lot of players in their ranks right now who have not been getting enough playing time and seem to be on the periphery of the squad. Some did head out in the recent winter transfer window and appear to be having much better luck away from Parkhead. One name on that list has to be that of Mikey Johnston.
After spending last season out on loan at Vitoria SC, this was viewed as Johnston's big opportunity to reestablish himself at Celtic. In Brendan Rodgers, he now had a manager he had already worked with.
Chances still proved to be hard to come by for Johnston. There were occasions when he did well but was never really given a run in the team to prove himself.
He would ultimately leave in the winter, joining West Bromwich Albion on loan. The Republic of Ireland international is already making his presence felt in the Championship. He scored in the very first minute of the Baggies' 2-0 win over Cardiff City, who had David Turnbull starting for them.
Celtic player publicly admits frustration with game time
Johnston has admitted to his frustrations with his lack of playing time at Celtic. As reported by The Scotsman, he said:
"I wasn't getting the minutes I wanted at Celtic - I was playing but it was sporadic.
"Sometimes I'd play well and score and then wouldn't play the next game - it was frustrating. It was important for me to get out of Celtic to be honest and when West Brom came up, it's a great opportunity.
"We want to make the play-offs and the big occasion and those are the occasions I want to play in."
In many ways, this felt like Johnston's last chance to make it at Celtic. Now, it remains to be seen how he does at West Bromwich Albion.
If he does well, one would expect the English club to try and sign him on a permanent basis in the summer. If he does not, then there is little chance that he will get another look in at Celtic next season. Never say never though. Much stranger things have happened in football. He does have a contract that runs until the summer of 2026.