Celtic to scout defenders with Johnston out until October
Quick summary
Celtic will explore defensive options in the market as right-back Alistair Johnston faces an extended spell on the sidelines until October.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceCeltic full-back Alistair Johnston will be out of action until October, manager Martin O'Neill confirms.
Source attribution: this article content is based on the linked publisher feed/source. Chance adds independent soccer context, impact analysis, entity links, and related news.
What happened
Celtic are set to assess defensive reinforcements after confirming that Alistair Johnston will be unavailable until October. The Canada international right-back's absence leaves a gap in Brendan Rodgers' back line at a critical early point in the season. Celtic are expected to 'have a little look' at available options, suggesting a measured rather than urgent approach to the transfer market. The situation could accelerate plans to bring in a versatile defensive recruit before the window closes.
Chance analysis
Losing a first-choice right-back for the opening stretch of the season is a meaningful problem for Celtic, particularly with European fixtures and domestic title defence both on the agenda. Brendan Rodgers' framing — 'have a little look' — suggests Celtic are not panicking but are clearly aware that depth at the back will be tested. Expect this to crystallise into concrete targets in the coming weeks rather than a marquee splash, with a utility defender or a loan move the more likely outcome than a high-fee acquisition.
Celtic's defensive stability is weakened by Johnston's multi-month absence, but the club's openness to the market signals an attempt to reinforce before the window closes.