Brendan Rodgers is pleased to see the “strength and power” of Alistair Johnston in training as the Celtic full-back moves closer to a return to action.
The 27-year-old Canada international has been out since the goalless draw in the Champions League play-off at home to Kazakhstan side Kairat Almaty on August 20, missing nine games in all competitions.
Johnston returned to training during the international break and ahead of the trip to Dundee in the William Hill Premiership on Sunday, Rodgers told Celtic TV: “It’s obviously a big blow having someone of that quality out.
“But young Colby Donovan has come in and done very, very well, Tony Ralston is always a very capable player for the club and an international player, so it has given those guys a chance to get games.
“But there’s no doubt Ali’s been a real pivotal part of the team for a number of years now.
“His power and the balance he gives both offensively and defensively is very important for the team.
“So it’s great to have him back on the pitch and seeing that strength and power back in training.”
After a “reset” during this international break, Rodgers is looking for his players to embrace the tough tasks they face in the seven games before domestic football takes another rest in November.
Amid a busy upcoming schedule, Celtic, who trail William Hill Premiership leaders Hearts by two points, have Europa League games against Sturm Graz and Midtjylland, a trip to Tynecastle in the league and a Premier Sports Cup semi-final against Rangers at Hampden Park.
The former Liverpool and Leicester boss said: “Let’s embrace all the challenges that come our way, both domestically and in Europe.
“It’s a really exciting period.
“It’s what Celtic is all about, playing these games and playing in the big games.
“And for us, that collective, being together, is always the attitude that we want to show.
“We’re excited by these games that are coming up and we want to go in and embrace the challenges. Everyone together fighting for the same cause is what Celtic is about.”
