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Celtic's Johnston Eyes Late April Return from Injury

Published 26 March 2026

Celtic defender Alistair Johnston provided an optimistic update on his hamstring recovery during an interview with Canadian media this week, targeting a return to action by the end of April to bolster the team's push for the Scottish Premiership title.

The 27-year-old right-back has been sidelined since September 23, when he suffered a recurrence of a hamstring injury during a Europa League match against Sturm Graz. The issue stemmed from an initial partial tear in late August during a Champions League qualifier against Kairat Almaty. After a brief return in October, the injury worsened, leading to surgery. Johnston resumed light training with Celtic earlier this month but has yet to feature in competitive play this season.

Currently in Canada, Johnston joined the national team squad for upcoming friendlies against Iceland and Tunisia, though he will not participate in the matches. The trip aligns with Celtic granting the first team a week off, allowing him to train with his international teammates instead of continuing solo sessions in Scotland. Canada head coach Jesse Marsch noted that Johnston and fellow defender Moïse Bombito were eager to rejoin the group, emphasizing their...

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