Celtic to 'have a little look' at defenders with Johnston out until October

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has confirmed that right-back Alistair Johnston will be sidelined until October due to injury, prompting the club to consider defensive reinforcements.

Celtic have been dealt a blow with the news that right-back Alistair Johnston will be out of action until October. Manager Martin O'Neill confirmed the injury in a press conference, stating that the club will 'have a little look' at potential defensive options in the transfer market. The setback comes at a crucial time as Celtic prepare for a busy schedule, including Champions League qualifiers and domestic fixtures. Johnston sustained the injury during a training session, and while the exact nature of the problem has not been disclosed, it is serious enough to keep him sidelined for several weeks. The Canadian international has been a key figure in Celtic's defense since his arrival, known for his energetic runs down the right flank and solid defensive contributions. His absence leaves a significant gap in the squad, forcing O'Neill to consider alternative solutions. In his press conference, O'Neill said: "We'll have a little look at what's available. Alistair is a big player for us, and his absence is a blow. But we have other players who can step up, and we'll also assess the market to see if there's someone who can come in and help us." The manager emphasized that any potential signing would need to be the right fit for the club, rather than a panic buy. Celtic's start to the season has been promising, but the defensive line has been a concern for supporters. Johnston's injury exacerbates these worries, as his attacking overlaps and defensive awareness are integral to the team's style of play. In the coming weeks, O'Neill may experiment with different formations, possibly deploying a center-back at right-back or giving a young academy prospect a chance. However, such adjustments may take time to gel, especially with important matches on the horizon. The club is also navigating the demands of European competition, with Champions League qualifiers adding to the fixture congestion. This makes squad depth even more critical, and the lack of a natural replacement for Johnston could expose vulnerabilities in high-stakes games. O'Neill revealed that the club's hierarchy is actively working on potential deals, though no specific targets have been named. Reports suggest Celtic are monitoring several young defenders across Europe, but negotiations are still in early stages. For Johnston, this injury is a frustrating setback. He had a stellar previous season and represented Canada at the World Cup, establishing himself as one of the top right-backs in the league. Despite the disappointment, he remains positive and is working closely with the club's medical staff on his rehabilitation. Celtic have devised a comprehensive recovery plan to ensure he returns fully fit and avoids any recurrence of the injury. Overall, Johnston's absence presents a significant challenge for Celtic, but also an opportunity for other players to step up and prove their worth. O'Neill's experience will be vital in navigating this period, and fans will be hoping the team can maintain their form across all competitions. As the transfer window progresses, Celtic's defensive recruitment will be closely watched, with supporters eager to see how the club addresses this unexpected hurdle.

Celtic to 'have a little look' at defenders with Johnston out until October

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