Martin O’Neill delivers Alistair Johnston injury update

Alistair Johnston will undergo a scan today to discover the extent of his leg injury.

The defender was substituted at half-time during Celtic’s 5-1 win over Kilmarnock and has missed the two matches since.

A proposed transfer to Everton appears to have fallen through with the initial suggestion being that Johnston will be out until towards the end of September.

Information on the injury has been scarce.

Last season Johnston was out for two lengthy spells, the second requiring surgery on his hamstring.

That has naturally triggered concerns about a recurrence of that injury.

Colby Donovan has stood in for Johnston, last night against LASK the young full-back was outstanding.

Covering the final question at the all-in media conference, The Scotsman reports:

Donovan is standing in for the injured Alistair Johnston, who O’Neill revealed is due to have a scan on Thursday for the leg muscle injury sustained against Kilmarnock two weekends ago. “By the time I meet up with you again, we should have an idea (how long he will be out),” he said.

O’Neill isn’t scheduled for media duties until Monday, ahead of the second leg against LASK.

After last season’s issues there are obvious concerns over the fitness of Johnston.

CONCERNS OVER ALISTAIR JOHNSTON INJURY

Last season he was injured against Kairat Almaty on August 20 then returned against Sturm Graz on October 23.

A recurrence of the hamstring injury required surgery with Johnston not playing again until April 25.

The return of Johnston, Arne Engels and Daizen Maeda played a key role in Celtic winning the SPFL and Scottish Cup.

The full-back then played 90 minutes in five World Cup matches between June 12 and July 4.

After a short break he was back at Celtic, playing the full 90 minutes against Dundee on August 3.

Now everyone must wait for the outcome of the scans to find out a likely return timeline.

Johnston’s injury presents a real dilemma for O’Neill with Donovan impressing against LASK, covering his ground and providing an aerial presence to the Celtic side.

Getting Donovan and Tony Ralston to deputise for the injured 27-year-old looks the most likely option although some fans will feel that a more experienced, ready made right-back should be signed.

CLICK HERE for details of Johnston’s appearances last season.