Hardly-seen Celtic player with 100% pass completion should start vs Rangers
Sam Johnstone made an impressive start to life on loan at Celtic when he featured in Wednesday's 1-0 win over St Johnstone.
Mika Baur scored the only goal for the Scottish champions, who continued their perfect start to the new league season.
The 33-year-old arrived from Wolves last week, reportedly signing on a straight loan deal with no option to buy.
Johnstone made just 17 appearances for his parent club last season, and has suffered from significant injuries over the years.
The former England international has not made more than 30 appearances across all competitions in a single season since the 2021-22 campaign, when he was still with West Brom.
Yet Celtic hope that he will provide competition and cover for Viljamni Sinisalo, following the retirement of Kasper Schmeichel.
Sam Johnstone's full stats on Celtic debut
The highlight of Johnstone's Celtic debut came in just the 19th minute, and ultimately proved to be key.
Enes Alic's cross had evaded three defenders before falling perfectly to Joel Cotterill, who struck it well.
The midfielder was almost wheeling away in celebration before Johnstone instinctively stuck up a strong left hand to tip the shot over the bar.
It was a fantastic save and a vital moment for Celtic, who would go on to win the game by just one goal.
The 33-year-old made two other saves, too, facing 1.05 expected goals on the night but he stood tall and kept St Johnstone out.
Johnstone made a high claim and eight recoveries, too, and completed all 31 of the short passes he attempted.
There is work to be done on his long passing, however, with the Englishman attempting seven and misplacing all of them.
Will Johnstone start against Rangers?
It would undoubtedly be harsh on Sinisalo to drop him for Sunday's Old Firm derby, yet there are reasons for it.
The 24-year-old showed his lack of experience when Celtic crashed out of the Champions League qualifiers last month, and will likely be tested by Rangers far more than he has already this season.
Johnstone brings experience and composure, with his save on Wednesday night demonstrating his still-quick reactions.
"St Johnstone had a major chance in the game, Sam Johnstone makes a fantastic save," Martin O'Neill said after the game. "Otherwise, we're a goal behind. He did very well. He looked commanding, which is nice to see."