Watch as 24-year-old Celt sends Rodgers an international message

Mikey Johnston returned to Portugal and provided a reminder to Brendan Rodgers that he is fit, well and waiting on his first Celtic appearance of the season.

The winger spent last season on loan at Vitoria Guimaraes, and returned to Portugal to score the second goal in Ireland’s 4-0 win over Gibraltar as he started his first competitive international.

Johnston was named in Celtic’s Champions League squad but since Brendan Rodgers arrived in June the hoops have signed Yang Hyun-jun, Marco Tilio and Luis Palma.

Given a start last night by Stephen Kenny Johnston made the most of his opportunity but it was more of a fitness test than a football match against opponents who have failed to score in the European Championship group.

Evan Ferguson put Ireland in front in the eighth minute before Johnston doubled the lead with an Ange-like goal as he came in off the left wing to attack the ball at the front post and net from close range after his initial effort hit the post.

The task now for Johnston is to get into Celtic’s 20 man matchday squad and get some time on the park.

Last night he played on the left wing, cutting in at every opportunity which is a contrast to the direct pace that Daizen Maeda provides in the position.

Rodgers gave Johnston his Celtic debut when he started against St Johnston in May 2017 alongside Tony Ralston.

Six years later Ralston is a valuable member of the Celtic first team squad but Johnston has still to prove himself under Rodgers II.