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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
David Irvine

'Bin it' - Alistair Johnston in Celtic Champions League defeat kit theory

Alistair Johnston went eight months without his first defeat playing for Celtic.

The Canadian full-back hadn't endured a loss for the Parkhead side since his move from Montreal eight months ago.

However, that all came to an end as Celtic were toppled 2-0 by Feyenoord in the opening match of the Champions League group stage.

After 23 unbeaten outings for Celtic, Johnston quipped the new away kit for this season must be the reason for his record being broken.

He joked: “I think it’s the kit. It has to be the green and white hoops, I might have to bin that green one!

"But that’s the Champions League for you. Yes, that is a bit frustrating to lose that record. That is my first loss.

"But it was going to happen at some point, so hopefully we can bounce back and start another streak.”

While Johnston was gutted to see his unbeaten run reset in the Netherlands, he has been very impressed by the performances of Liam Scales this season.

The central defender was a player many expected to depart over the summer, however, he has been a regular this season as defensive injuries plague the Celtic defence.

Johnston said of his team-mate: "I think Liam Scales has been unbelievable since coming into this role. A lot of people probably felt they’d never see him in a Celtic kit again.

“He’s been one who has just taken it and grabbed it with both hands and hasn’t let it go. Arguably, he’s been our best player these past couple of matches. That’s been really impressive seeing it as a player on the pitch, just seeing the confidence he plays with.

“He’s also one of those guys who hasn’t shied away from the moment. He throws his body about, gets in there and he loves a tackle as well. He’s one of those guys who plays for the badge and you never knock that.”

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