Celtic goalkeeper Sam Johnstone insists he is a different player after Ibrox nightmare

The on-loan Wolves shot-stopper returned to Martin O’Neill’s starting XI against Celta Vigo last Thursday before retaining his place for Sunday’s 2-1 victory over Hibs at Easter Road.

Johnstone had previously spent almost six weeks on the sidelines following Celtic’s 3-0 defeat to Rangers at Ibrox, where his performance came under considerable scrutiny.

However, the 33-year-old believes that period has allowed him to adapt to Celtic’s playing style and rediscover his confidence.

Speaking about his return to the side, Johnstone said via Daily Record: “I’ll never turn down playing. When someone asks me if I want to play, it’s not in my nature to be saying it’s a tough game or it’s a big game. My mentality is to play and to do my best.

“That [defeat to Rangers] was six or seven weeks ago now. I feel like a different goalkeeper, a different person.”

The Englishman admitted that adjusting to Celtic’s approach had taken time, particularly after arriving towards the end of the summer transfer window.

“I’ve just got a good block of work in. As you know, coming to a new club, the way we play here is different to where I’ve been previously at different clubs.

“So it was just a case of getting used to that, getting used to the lads in training, getting used to how we do things.

“I think this block of training for the last six or seven weeks has really helped me.”

Reflecting on his difficult afternoon at Ibrox, Johnstone acknowledged the intensity of the Glasgow derby had caught him by surprise.

“I don’t think anyone can prepare you for that game, especially away with no away fans. It was a tough one because of the result and the size of the game. I’ve never experienced anything like that before in my career.

“Again, great to play in, but the result hurt us. I don’t think anything can prepare you for those games until you play in them.”

Johnstone also praised Celtic goalkeeping coach Stevie Woods for helping him settle into his new surroundings.

“I’ve really enjoyed it. The sessions are great. He’s a great person.

“We’ve got a good group between me, Vil, Ross [Doohan] and a few of the younger lads.

“I enjoy coming in every day. I enjoy training. It’s great to work with Woodsy and Michael McGovern helps as well. It’s a good group.”