Martin O’Neill reveals positive news on Alistair Johnston’s latest Celtic injury

The Canadian international lasted just 21 minutes during Sunday’s 2-1 victory over Hibs at Easter Road before being forced off with another injury concern.

Johnston had only recently returned from almost three months on the sidelines, with his latest setback raising fears of another extended absence for the Hoops.

O’Neill initially expressed concern following the victory in Edinburgh, but has now provided a more encouraging assessment of the 28-year-old’s condition.

Speaking to BBC Scotland, the Celtic boss was asked whether Johnston had avoided another serious injury.

“That’s what we’re hoping for, really,” O’Neill replied.

“Naturally, a disappointment, really, because even the length of time that he was on the field, which was not long, he looked commanding again.

“He’s been a big miss and he’s been a big miss last season as well too to the team, even though we eventually got through essentially without his services for long periods of time.

“Of course, Carter-Vickers has missed the whole season.

“But back to Alistair, yeah, we’re hoping that it’s not as serious, you know. And so the medical team are pretty happy with it.”