Celtic Face Alistair Johnston Absence Until November

Celtic face a lengthy spell without Alistair Johnston, with the Canadian defender not expected back until November after a hamstring problem proved worse than first suggested.

Johnston was forced off at half-time during Celtic’s emphatic 5-0 win over Kilmarnock in the second game of the season, initially describing the issue as a minor hamstring niggle. Early optimism has now evaporated. The club do not expect him to feature again until deep into the autumn.

Earlier this week it emerged that the prognosis was more serious than Assistant Manager Shaun Maloney had hinted at Rugby Park. Now, according to Sun Sport, scans have confirmed Johnston faces a “considerable” period on the sidelines, leaving Celtic exposed in a position that already caused problems last season.

Right-back problem returns

Johnston’s absence immediately sharpens the focus on the transfer window. Martin O’Neill must decide whether to ride out the next few months with what he has, or move decisively for another right-back.

Talks are ongoing with Hajduk Split over Niko Sigur, a player who offers more than just a straight replacement. The 19-year-old can operate at right-back and in defensive midfield, two areas where Celtic want extra cover. His profile fits a clear need: reliability on the flank, and an extra shield in front of the back four when required.

Inside the squad, Colby Donovan has already made his case. Handed an opportunity against LASK, the teenager delivered an impressive performance that strengthened his claim for the shirt. O’Neill’s decision to start the 19-year-old ahead of Tony Ralston underlined where the pecking order currently lies.

For now, the pathway is obvious. With Johnston out and no new signing through the door yet, Donovan is expected to continue as first choice on the right. He has earned that chance.

Market moves on the horizon

Celtic’s recruitment team are not stopping at Sigur. The club have also been linked with Yuki Sugawara of Southampton, who is set to be made available. The Japanese defender would bring proven quality and immediate competition, though any move depends on how aggressively Celtic choose to act before the window closes.

What is not in doubt is the need. When Johnston missed time last season, the right side of Celtic’s defence wobbled. Depth was exposed, standards dipped, and the margin for error in domestic and European games narrowed quickly.

Donovan’s emergence offers encouragement, but it does not solve the bigger problem on its own. Celtic need numbers and they need quality, especially with the schedule about to tighten and the stakes rising on multiple fronts.

Sigur’s versatility makes him an attractive, practical option: one signing to reinforce both defence and midfield. Whether that proves enough, or whether Celtic push again for someone like Sugawara, will say plenty about how serious they are about turning a weakness into a strength before Johnston finally returns.