Copa America joy KO’s holiday plans for Celtic defender

Alistair Johnston helped Canada book their place at the Copa America and virtually write off his prospects of a summer holiday.

Last night’s 2-0 win over Trinidad & Tobago booked the Canadians into Group A of the Copa America alongside Argentina, Peru and Chile which take place between June 20-29.

If Celtic beat Aberdeen in their Scottish Cup semi-final the domestic season will extend to May 25, this week Celtic announced pre-season friendlies in the USA between July 20-27 ahead of the SPFL opening up on August 3.

With the Copa America starting on June 20 the Canadian squad has a friendly away to the Netherlands on June 6 to warm up for their opener against Argentina on June 20. The competition runs through until July 14 leaving Johnston’s best hope of a break as a few days at the end of May.

Okay FORREAL this time.

WE’VE QUALIFIED FOR COPA AMÉRICA!!!!

Had our locations wrong, didn’t want you all showing up to the wrong stadium ? pic.twitter.com/N69ESLSJim

— CANMNT (@CANMNT_Official) March 23, 2024

Johnston played the full 90 minutes against Trinidad & Tobago, picking up a booking in first half stoppage time.

Cameron Carter-Vickers faces a similar summer schedule with the USA, closer to home Callum McGregor is assured of his place in the Scotland squad at the European Championships with Greg Taylor and Tony Ralston both battling for places in Steve Clarke’s squad.

If Celtic win the SPFL title they will go straight into the Champions League, if they finish as runners up they face four midweek qualifiers through August to reach the new look money-spinner.

CLICK HERE for Copa America scheduler.