Celtic star Alistair Johnston dazzles with 100% Canada display as full stats revealed

Alistair Johnston delivered another strong display away from Celtic as World Cup hosts Canada drew 1-1 with the Republic of Ireland on Saturday.

An own-goal by Everton defender Jake O'Brien put the hosts ahead in Montreal, before Troy Parrott's saved penalty was followed by Chiedozie Ogbene to equalise after the break.

Ireland did not qualify for this summer's World Cup, but Canada's next game will be against Bosnia and Herzegovina in their opening game of the tournament.

Johnston was injured in August last year and remained on the sideline until April, but he has returned in an incredibly strong way since.

The Celtic defender was key as his side won their final five Scottish Premiership games to lift the title over Hearts.

He is expected to be key to any chances for Canada this summer, too, although the host nation are not among the favourites.

Jesse Marsch's team are unbeaten in their last eight games, however, and still have Alphonso Davies to return and partner Johnston.

Should Canada have the 27-year-old in his best Celtic form alongside the Bayern Munich man, they may well have a chance.

Alistair Johnston's superb stats vs Ireland

Johnston was in fine form against Uzbekistan on Tuesday, and that form was brought into Saturday's game.

The Celtic man played just 45 minutes of football, creating a chance and completing nine passes into the final third in that time.

But it was Johnston's defensive work which really stood out. The 27-year-old made three tackles, a clearance and two recoveries.

In the duel, he was 100 per cent successful, winning every single one of those he contested.

It was a brilliant display to take Johnston into the World Cup, where he may well catch interested eyes with such performances.

There was reportedly Premier League interest in the right-back last summer, and it should not be ruled out that it returns.

Johnston's contract situation could encourage suitors

Johnston's last contract extension came in 2024, with the defender tied down until 2029.

Celtic know that Premier League interest would be hard to fight off, and they must ensure they remain in a strong position to get the right fee.

In Johnston's case, decision time appears to be approaching fairly imminently.

His injury situation will likely fight off most interested parties this summer, but a strong World Cup will easily change that.