Mikey Johnston wants to repay Ange Postecoglou for keeping his Celtic dream alive.
And the winger says the manager’s inspired signings Kyogo Furuhashi and Jota and his attacking philosophy are driving him to hit new heights.
Johnston has battled back from injury to boost Postecoglou’s offensive options after sustaining a nightmare injury in pre-season.
The Parkhead boss has offered the 22-year-old opportunities now he’s back to fitness and the winger is determined to reward such faith.
Johnston said: “He’s been great. I love the way he plays football, the fans are the same. It’s what Celtic is all about, attacking football at all times. That’s what he wants.
“Callum [McGregor] on the ball, it’s about going forward at all times. Even if it’s 2-0, we’re still looking for more goals. I love that.
“I’ve always been a goalscorer, so I want to get the goals back in my game.
“I want to see Celtic doing well and all these players are coming in and doing well. I’m happy for them.
“But, obviously, I want to be one who’s doing well too. Everyone has a bit of selfishness about them.
“That’s my dream, to play for Celtic, and hopefully I can keep doing it.”
Postecoglou didn’t indulge in personal chats with Johnson during his lay-off and let the player get back in his own time as he explained: “He’s not that sort of guy.
“But the fact he’s putting me back in squads shows that he believes in me. He doesn’t need to put an arm round my shoulder. Picking me is enough.”
During his spell on the sidelines, new fan heroes have emerged such as Kyogo and Jota.
The Japanese and Portuguese have lit up the attacking department of the unit and Johnston says the arrival of the pair has both inspired and motivated him.
He said: “That’s definitely the case. They’re just great players.
“It’s been amazing watching, training and playing with them. You learn so much from people like that.
“The runs they make and how effective they are with goals and assists. I want to add that to my game.”
Johnson made a fourth sub appearance since his return during the weekend win and is set to go again in Wednesday’s showdown with Hibs.
He said: “I’m definitely getting there, the minutes are going up every week, I’m getting more and more time on the field.
“As long as I can keep my body right, keep doing the right stuff, I’m sure I can stay fit.”
