‘We expect’ – Brendan Rodgers delivers injury update on ‘outstanding’ Celtic player ahead of Rangers clash

Celtic will face archrivals Rangers in the Premier Sports Cup final on Sunday at Hampden Park. 

The Bhoys have dominated the Scottish Premiership so far and are also in a good position in the Champions League.

In the previous game against Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League away from Parkhead, Celtic right-back Alistair Johnston picked up an injury after a nasty collision and was taken off at the break.

Rodgers earlier said the 26-year-old has not picked up any muscle injury, and he hoped that the defender would be able to overcome the pain.

The Celtic boss confirmed today that the Canadian has avoided any major injury and should be able to start against the Gers.

Fans feared that the Hoops defender could miss the big game, but Rodgers has quashed any unrest.

“The squad is healthy – we expect Ali [Johnston] to be okay,” said Rodgers, ahead of the clash against Rangers.

“He was out on the pitches this afternoon, so we should have everyone fit and available.

“[He had] an extra bit of recovery. Naturally, he’s been an outstanding player for us over the course of his time here, and in particular this season. He’s been instrumental in our work.

“Speaking to him earlier, and out on the pitch he was fine so we expect him to be okay.”

Alistair Johnston’s injury update is a huge boost for Celtic

Rodgers has hailed Johnston as an “outstanding” defender, and rightly so.

Johnston is a key player under Rodgers and brings a lot of quality to the team. He is very solid in his defending and produces good crosses from the flanks.

Celtic have Anthony Ralston as his replacement, but Johnston is a different class altogether. With him in the side, Celtic will feel more confident ahead of the Old Firm derby clash.

The Hoops have conceded only four goals this season in 15 Scottish Premiership games, and Johnston has played a massive part in it.