Celtic Face Right-Back Crisis After Alistair Johnston Injury

Celtic face a lengthy spell without Alistair Johnston, with the right-back not expected to return until November.

The Canadian international came off at half-time in Celtic’s 5-0 demolition of Kilmarnock in the second league game of the season, feeling a hamstring problem. Initial noises from the dugout, including from assistant manager Shaun Maloney at Rugby Park, suggested it might not be too serious.

The scan has told a different story.

Reports now claim Johnston will be sidelined for a “considerable period”, a blow that immediately reshapes Celtic’s plans for the remainder of the transfer window and puts pressure on Martin O’Neill to move in the market for another right-back.

O’Neill’s right-back puzzle

Celtic are already in talks to sign Niko Sigur from Hajduk Split. The 19-year-old can operate at right-back and as a defensive midfielder, two areas where the squad needs cover. That versatility makes him an obvious fit for a manager juggling short-term needs and longer-term balance.

Inside the dressing room, though, one player has already made his move.

Colby Donovan seized his chance with an impressive performance against LASK, doing enough to convince O’Neill to start him ahead of Tony Ralston. The manager’s preference for the teenager suggests Donovan will keep the shirt for now, with expectations that he will continue in the role until any new signing arrives.

Another name on the radar is Yuki Sugawara at Southampton, who is reportedly set to be made available and has been linked with Celtic as they weigh up their options.

Depth now a necessity, not a luxury

Donovan has earned the right to stay in the team, but Celtic know they cannot rely on one emerging youngster and a patched-together solution over a long campaign. Last season’s struggles at right-back when Johnston was injured are still fresh in the memory, and the club is wary of repeating that scenario.

Sigur, with his ability to cover both defence and midfield, looks like the most practical option on the table: one signing, two problems eased.

Celtic have their starter for now. The next few weeks will decide whether they can build the depth and quality behind him that a title challenge demands.