Celtic Face Long Spell Without Alistair Johnston

Celtic are bracing themselves for a long spell without Alistair Johnston, with the Canadian defender not expected back until November.

Johnston pulled up with a hamstring issue and was withdrawn at half-time during Celtic’s thumping 5-0 win over Kilmarnock in the second game of the season. At the time, Assistant Manager Shaun Maloney played down the problem at Rugby Park, but the subsequent diagnosis has proved far more severe than first suggested.

The latest scans have confirmed the worst fears. According to a report from Sun Sport, Johnston now faces a “considerable” period on the sidelines, leaving Martin O'Neill to rip up his plans at right back and reassess the transfer market with urgency.

Right-back rethink for O’Neill

Celtic’s response has already started. Talks are under way with Hajduk Split over Niko Sigur, a player who offers more than just a like-for-like replacement. The 19-year-old can operate both at right back and as a defensive midfielder, two areas where Celtic want extra cover after last season’s depth issues.

That versatility makes Sigur an appealing solution. One signing, two positions shored up. It’s the kind of move that can stabilise a squad rocked by an injury to a first-choice defender.

In the short term, though, the shirt belongs to Colby Donovan.

The youngster grasped his opportunity with an eye-catching performance against LASK, convincing O’Neill to start him ahead of the more experienced Tony Ralston. That decision spoke volumes. Donovan has not just filled a gap; he has made a case to keep it.

For now, O’Neill is expected to stick with the 19-year-old until reinforcements arrive. Donovan has earned that trust on merit, not sentiment.

Market options and a familiar warning

Celtic’s search will not stop with Sigur. The club have also been linked with Yuki Sugawara of Southampton, who is understood to be available. Another specialist right back on the radar, another reminder of how quickly a position of strength can become a problem area.

Last season offered a painful lesson. When Johnston was missing, Celtic struggled badly on that flank. Defensive balance wobbled, attacking patterns from the right dulled, and the lack of reliable cover became a recurring theme.

O’Neill cannot afford a repeat.

Donovan’s emergence is a welcome surprise, but it does not change the bigger picture. Celtic need depth. They need quality. And they need it quickly, with domestic demands and European ambitions looming.

If Sigur arrives, he brings flexibility. If Sugawara follows, he adds specialist pedigree. Between them, Celtic could turn a looming crisis at right back into a position of strength.

For now, though, the clock ticks towards November, and every game without Alistair Johnston will test just how quickly this rebuild on the right side can come together.