Overview
- Manager Martin O’Neill confirmed on Monday that scans show a muscular problem that will keep right-back Alistair Johnston sidelined until about October.
- Johnston’s injury follows a hamstring tear that cost him most of last season and occurred after he pulled up during the early-August match at Kilmarnock.
- Celtic travel to Linz for the Champions League play-off second leg without Johnston and will turn to Colby Donovan and Anthony Ralston at right-back while Auston Trusty is expected to be available.
- O’Neill said the latest setback has likely scuppered Johnston’s chance of a Premier League move that had drawn Everton interest and media valuations in the low millions range.
- The manager added Celtic will look to strengthen defensively before the September transfer deadline and that transfer business will not be contingent on Champions League qualification.