Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has offered a positive update on Alistair Johnston’s fitness ahead of Sunday’s Premier Sports Cup final against Rangers at Hampden.
The Canadian right-back, a key figure in Celtic’s defence this season, was forced off at half-time during Tuesday’s goalless Champions League draw with Dinamo Zagreb.
Johnston sustained a knock following a collision with Marko Rog late in the first half but managed to finish the half before being replaced by Anthony Ralston as a precaution.
With the first domestic trophy of the season on the line, Johnston’s potential absence raised concerns among fans, particularly after he appeared dejected on the bench in Zagreb.
However, Rodgers sounded optimistic about his availability for the showdown with Philippe Clement’s Rangers.
“It was his hip flexor, nothing muscular which is good,” Rodgers explained in his post-match press conference.
“There was no need to risk it and all being well that will settle down in the coming days.”
Missed Opportunity in Zagreb
Reflecting on the Dinamo Zagreb draw, Rodgers expressed disappointment at his side’s failure to capitalise on their opportunities, but he also highlighted the progress the team has made in Europe.
“We needed to do more,” Rodgers admitted.
“That’s my honest answer on it. It was an opportunity for us but you have to show a little bit more in those moments. The positive is we’ve come away from the game defensively strong and didn’t concede.”
Celtic’s struggles in the final third were evident, with the manager pointing to the difficult pitch conditions as a contributing factor.
However, he praised the team’s defensive discipline and their ability to secure a clean sheet in a challenging away fixture.
“In the Champions League, if you get a clean sheet and take a point away from home and you’re not very happy, that shows how the team has progressed,” Rodgers noted.
“We had enough of the ball to create more opportunities, but to have that base collectively is very important.”
Building Confidence
Rodgers believes the team is developing the mentality needed to compete at the highest level.
“This group and team is gaining confidence at this level,” he said.
“The players gave everything. We needed to do more, but we know that. That’s cool. We know it was an opportunity for us, but you have to show that little bit more.”
As the focus shifts to Sunday’s Cup final, Rodgers will hope Johnston recovers in time to play a key role in what promises to be a fiercely contested derby clash.
