Major Alistair Johnston update after Celtic injury scare

Players take a risk of potential injury every time they get on the pitch. So, international breaks are always filled with worry for clubs, especially when you consider the growing amount of football being played these days. And Celtic were handed a scare recently, as Alistair Johnston was taken of in Canada's recent game in the first half itself.

Johnston had been in the starting XI for Canada on what turned out to be a historic day for them, as they won their first away game against the United States in 67 years. But the Celtic defender was only involved for a fraction of the game, as he was taken off in the 23rd minute with what looked like a hamstring injury.

Of course, hamstring issues are tricky. A player could be back next week or be out of action for months, depending upon the situation.

In the case of Johnston, it feels like the issue might not be serious. At least that is what it feels like reading between the lines. As reported by The Scottish Sun, Jesse Marsch said:

"Alistair said he felt a little bit of tightness in his hamstring and he felt it was smarter to step out.

“If you go back to the Holland game in June, he also did that and he knows his body.

“From that game, he was able to recover and play against France a few days later, so let’s hope it’s a similar type situation.

“I am hopeful that he will be okay."

Major Alistair Johnston update after Celtic injury scare

That sounds like good news for Celtic. Although, it is worth mentioning that we still have not clearly learned the extent of the issue. Hopefully, that will be available soon as well.

Johnston is a key part of Brendan Rodgers' plans for sure. He has started the 24/25 season in great form and Celtic would not want to see him out on the sidelines for any length of time.

Let's see how the situation transpires from here but at least there is reason to hope that Johnston is fine and that it was just a precautionary change on the part of Canada. Celtic's next game is against Hearts before they kick off their Champions League campaign.