Johnston return 'major boost' for 'inconsistent' Celtic

After what's felt like another endless international break, Celtic are finally back in action this weekend, and it can't come soon enough. Performances had been inconsistent and the atmosphere around the club uneasy, as we found ourselves in the unfamiliar position of second place in the Scottish Premiership table. Having him back ahead of a relentless run of fixtures in the coming weeks could be a massive boost for Brendan Rodgers and the team.

Celtic fan's voice
[BBC]

After what's felt like another endless international break, Celtic are finally back in action this weekend, and it can't come soon enough.

The Bhoys return to league duty against Dundee on Sunday, and there's a sense of hope among the support that this could be a big afternoon - not just in terms of three points, but in reigniting the momentum that's been glaringly absent across the season so far.

The break arrived at a strange time. Performances had been inconsistent and the atmosphere around the club uneasy, as we found ourselves in the unfamiliar position of second place in the Scottish Premiership table.

But now, with players refreshed from the break, and with the possibility of a long-awaited return on the horizon, there's cautious optimism that we can soon get back to our best.

That major boost is the potential comeback of Alistair Johnston. The Canadian full-back has been sorely missed, not only for his defensive solidity and for the energy he brings down the right flank, but for the character and personality that he brings to the group.

Having him back ahead of a relentless run of fixtures in the coming weeks could be a massive boost for Brendan Rodgers and the team.

And then there's the intrigue surrounding Celtic's new frontline options. Kelechi Iheanacho, Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Sebastian Tounekti all offer something different, and after weeks of settling in – some quicker than others - fans are eager to see them properly kick on.

Iheanacho's proven finishing could provide the cutting edge we've lacked at times, Balikwisha may have turned a corner after his display against Motherwell, and Tounekti's fast feet and trickery have made him one to watch in recent weeks.

It's early days for all of them of course, but if they can continue to gel then our attack could suddenly start to look a lot more dangerous.

All of this, of course, plays out against a backdrop of ongoing unrest between the club and the supporters' groups.

The disconnect has been steadily growing – inflamed by what's been deemed by many in attendance as an unsatisfactory meeting at Celtic Park last week – with frustration over communication, strategy and recruitment among some of the most pressing matters at this time.

As a result, the banners and the boycotts look set to continue in some way, shape or form – and information on that should become clearer in the coming days - as many push on in their desire for notable change at the club.

Still, come Sunday at Dens Park – for 90 minutes at least - we can focus on the football and on the hope that this new look side under Rodgers can finally click into gear. With a run of seven games in just 21 days lying in wait, there's no better time to get back on track.

Tino can be found at The Celtic Exchange

Category: General Sports