Al-Ahli Saudi v Celtic – Too soon for AJ but CCV should start

Alistair Johnston has been nothing short of superb since signing for the club in early 2023, so it was very refreshing to see him back on the training pitch as the players continue their pre-season preparations in the luxury surroundings of Como.

AJ represented Canada at the recent CONCACAF gold cup and hosted the competition alongside the USA. Canada were unfortunately eliminated at the quarter final stage after a shock loss to Guatemala on penalty kicks, thus allowing for a much needed extended break for the right back.

AJ will further strengthen our options in defence, as will Cameron Carter-Vickers who is also back in first team training, in what is a much needed boost with the season opener just under a week away. With the likes of AJ, CCV and Kieran Tierney present in the backline it makes us all that much stronger as a unit.

Carter-Vickers saw some action on Thursday night in that second half nightmare in Como when the roof fell in on Celtic after a very promising first half showing where the Hoops looked the better side. Ajax though were too hot to handle and it was clear that CCV has to go up the gears so hopefully he starts this evening in the final pre-season match of the summer, this time against Al-Ahli Saudi as we look to avoid leaving Lake Como with the wooden spoon.

The champions league play off is also looming at the end of August, so having all our more experienced and more ‘reliable’ players will be a welcome boost for the challenges that next campaign will bring, and both AJ and CCV are certainly in that category.

Tonight will probably be too soon for Alistair Johnston, with Anthony Ralston once again likely to be called upon to play at right back against a very strong Saudi side. Ralston had a difficult night against Ajax but has done very well in the other matches, including the wins over Sporting and Newcastle, so he has had a decent pre-season, seeing plenty of action against quality sides.

But when Alistair Johnston is ready to return, probably next Sunday against St Mirren on Flag Day at Celtic Park then, Celtic will certainly be a stronger side.