McLeish issues ‘massive’ verdict as Celtic rivals plot Johnston raid
Alex McLeish has suggested Mikey Johnston may flourish away from the “massive pressure” of Celtic with a loan move to Aberdeen.
The former Scotland manager, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 22-year-old could have a “great career” if he can get over his injury problems.
As reported by the Daily Record on Sunday (23 January), Aberdeen are considering making a late loan move for Johnston.
Scott Brown, who left Parkhead for Pittodrie last summer, has reportedly given the young winger a glowing reference.
McLeish suggested Brown would be a driving force behind the Dons’ interest in Johnston.
He claimed the Hoops winger could thrive with a temporary move away from Glasgow.
McLeish told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “There’s always massive pressure, when you’re playing for the Old Firm, to be playing at a level of particular greatness every single week.
“Sometimes when you go to another club, that’s not the Old Firm, a pressure can lift. Possibly that’s what Mikey Johnston needs.
“I would think that Scott Brown would have something to do with it. He’d be contributing to that possibility.
“Injuries are a factor. You’d be worried if he had ongoing injuries. At 22, it’s nothing. He’s just starting his career and he’s got a great career ahead of him, if he can get over the injuries.
“I’m not saying there’s less pressure if he’s going to Aberdeen. Aberdeen have got their own demands and expectations.
“But it does it can lift a player just to say that: ‘I’m not under the Old Firm pressure. I can express myself a wee bit better.’
“It could be good for the kid’s career.”
Johnston has played 18 times this season, with one assist under his belt.
He missed the start of the campaign due to a hamstring tear.
In other news, Celtic dealt “massive” blow ahead of Rangers showdown.