Alistair Johnston on his Celtic future – 'The grass isn’t always greener'

The right-back is in the process of recovering from a hamstring injury picked up against Kairat Almaty in the Champions League playoff qualifier first-leg at Celtic Park in which he was forced to leave the field on a stretcher during the first half.

Reflecting on various aspects of his Celtic career so far, Johnston acknowledged the widespread ambition among players to one day feature in the Premier League, but underlined that he remains very satisfied with life in Scotland for now.

Speaking to Park the Bus Podcast, Johnston said: “If you were to say that I was able to finish my career at Celtic, it means that I’ve done something really, really well done,” he said. “I’ve done something right for a club of this magnitude to want to keep me in the building for that long.”

“At the same time, I’m a player that I’ve sometimes probably struggled when I get satisfied to a degree, I get comfortable. I think that’s sometimes when my game can lag a little bit because I rely so much on my physicality, my mental fortitude of being so locked in that sometimes I like being out of my comfort zone. And that’s what really brings out the best in me.”

Johnston added: “Yeah, the Premier League is obviously a dream, I think, of pretty much every player. It’s the highest level that you can play at. But luckily, in my time here at Celtic, I’ve been able to play in some pretty big matches too in the Champions League.”

“To truly answer your question, of course, I have aspirations to potentially play in some of the biggest leagues in the world.”

“But at the same time, I’m really happy here. I’m really settled here,” he said. “It’s a great city, a great fanbase that truly loves and appreciates me. The grass isn’t always greener – we’ve seen that quite a few times.”

Johnston should not be criticised for voicing his ambition to one day play in the English Premier League. Like he outlines, it is where every footballer wants to be these days. It is only natural for players to become lethargic at playing at the same club or in the same league.

However, AJ also points out that the grass is not always greener. He is a fans-favourite and the Celtic support would love to see him remain at the club for as long as he wishes.

The signing of Johnston by Ange in January 2022 was more than just shrewd business. The Canadian has gone onto become a quality player, an upgrade on Josip Juranovic and a leader in the dressing room.

Conor Spence

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