Celtic Face Right-Back Crisis After Alistair Johnston Injury
Celtic are bracing themselves to be without Alistair Johnston until November, a major early-season setback on the right side of their defence.
The Canadian international went off at half-time in Celtic’s 5-0 demolition of Kilmarnock in the second league game of the campaign, feeling a hamstring problem that, at the time, sounded relatively minor. Assistant manager Shaun Maloney downplayed the issue at Rugby Park, but the picture since has darkened.
Club expectations earlier in the week pointed to a lengthy lay-off, and fresh reports now claim scans have confirmed Johnston faces a “considerable” spell out. That timeline pushes his return towards November and leaves Martin O’Neill with a decision to make in the final stretch of the transfer window.
Right-back crisis reshapes Celtic’s plans
Johnston’s absence reopens an old wound. Celtic struggled badly at right-back last season whenever the Canadian was missing, and the club are determined not to repeat that vulnerability.
O’Neill has already moved to address the problem area. Talks are ongoing with Hajduk Split over Niko Sigur, a player who can operate both at right-back and in defensive midfield. That flexibility appeals, with Celtic seeking cover in both positions as the schedule starts to tighten.
At the same time, Colby Donovan has thrown himself into the conversation. The 19-year-old delivered a standout performance against LASK, seizing his chance and convincing O’Neill to start him ahead of Tony Ralston. For now, the shirt is Donovan’s, and the expectation is that he will continue in the role until any new signing arrives.
Another name on the radar is Yuki Sugawara of Southampton, who is set to be made available and has been linked with a move to Glasgow. His profile fits the brief: an attack-minded right-back with experience, capable of slotting straight into a high-demand environment.
Donovan has earned the right to keep his place on merit. But Celtic’s recent history at right-back when Johnston has been sidelined is a warning. Depth is non-negotiable. Quality is essential. If the club can land Sigur, they would gain not just cover for the flanks but a versatile option who strengthens both defence and midfield.
Johnston’s injury has turned a position of relative comfort into a priority zone. How Celtic respond in the coming weeks could shape far more than just their autumn line-up.
