Credit: Imago

Evan Lloyd

Wed 3 June 2026 11:35, UK

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Alistair Johnston was in action away from Celtic this week as Canada beat Uzbekistan 2-0 in their World Cup warm-up.

Jonathan Osorio and Jayden Nelson scored second-half goals for the hosts, who will play the Republic of Ireland on Saturday before their World Cup kicks off next week.

Johnston has only been back from injury since the end of April, after missing around eight months of action through significant hamstring issues.

Luckily, the 27-year-old returned at just the right time, featuring in all five of the Hoops’ post-split Scottish Premiership games as they beat Hearts to the title on the final day, and assisting in the FA Cup final win against Dunfermline.

Celtic transfer chiefs are reportedly preparing a bid to sign Julian Araujo permanently this summer, after he impressed on loan in Johnston’s absence, but the Canadian will be determined to keep his place.

Alistair Johnston’s impressive stats vs Uzbekistan

Football Insider exclusively revealed last month that Celtic have Robbie Keane on their target list to take over from Martin O’Neill this summer, and he appears to be edging closer to the job.

The Irishman will have a number of decisions on his hands if he is appointed in the coming days, including one on his side’s right-back.

Johnston will make his case at the World Cup this summer, and he made his first point with a strong performance.

The 27-year-old only played 45 minutes, but completed 100 per cent of his attempted dribbles in that time, as well as winning a free-kick and completing six passes into the opposition half.

Defended home turf 🍁

90 more minutes of prep to come on Friday!

🇨🇦 🇺🇿 #CANMNT pic.twitter.com/Rmp1UfhrqR

— CANMNT (@CANMNT_Official) June 2, 2026

His best work came defensively, however, with the Celtic man completing two tackles, two recoveries, an interception and winning 80 per cent of his duels.

Johnston looking to replicate prior form

The 2024-25 season saw Johnston hit the type of form that could well have attracted the likes of Premier League clubs.

The right-back was in stunning form for Celtic, scoring four goals and providing 10 assists from right-back.

⚡️⚽️ A brilliant ball over the top from Johnston finds Daizen, who lifts it into the back of the net!#CELDAFC | #ScottishCupFinal | #CelticFC🍀 pic.twitter.com/sBiEJ4CUA0

— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) May 23, 2026

This season has seen injuries half that form completely, but the coming months will be key to gaining it back.

A strong World Cup could set up another fantastic season for Johnston, although he may well face some competition on his way.