Jackie McNamara has warned Celtic to expect transfer interest in Alistair Johnston this summer following the defender’s return from injury.
The Canada international missed the bulk of last season with a hamstring issue but came back in time to help Celtic secure a fifth consecutive title.
With a home World Cup on the horizon, McNamara believes strong performances could attract attention from elsewhere. “I think AJ’s been a great signing for Celtic,” McNamara said. “He was definitely a loss on that right side this season. [Daily Record]
“I know Auston Trusty fitted in at times, but having that balance to stretch the game down the right is important for the way Celtic play.
"It was a big plus getting him back late in the season, and the timing of his return was crucial.”
McNamara expects Celtic will be keen to hold onto the right-back but accepts interest is inevitable if he shines on the international stage.
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“They’ll be hoping he’s one who stays,” he added. “But anybody, even someone like Benjamin Nygren after the goals he scored, if they have a good World Cup, they’ll be linked with moves.
“That’s never going to change. If players are doing well and their numbers are good, like Arne Engels or Daizen Maeda, teams will be interested. It might be the same with AJ.”
Johnston joined Celtic in 2022 as a replacement for Josip Juranovic, and McNamara stressed the importance of planning ahead in case of departures.
“It was the same when Kyogo left, when Moussa Dembele left, when Virgil van Dijk left,” he said. “It’s about making sure they’re not missed, and that comes down to recruitment and having a forward plan.
“Recruitment is difficult because you’re competing at the highest level. It’s not just about spending lots of money, that doesn’t guarantee anything. It’s about spending it wisely.”
