Celtic dealt major blow by Scottish Football Association during international break

There is a growing sense of concern at Celtic after a difficult run of injury setbacks, though the potential return of Alistair Johnston offers a timely boost.

Johnston is currently away on international duty with Canada, but is not expected to feature, with the focus instead on regaining full fitness. Celtic will be hopeful the right-back returns to Glasgow ready to step straight back into contention, particularly given the mounting issues in that area of the pitch.

Earlier in the campaign, a proposed loan move for Colby Donovan to Dundee collapsed when Johnston first picked up his injury. The youngster was thrust into the spotlight and has remained involved with the first-team setup since, gaining valuable experience along the way.

However, fresh concerns have now emerged. With Julián Araujo already sidelined, Donovan was handed a start at Tannadice at the weekend. His afternoon was cut short after picking up a knock, and initial signs suggest the issue may be more serious than first hoped.

The Scottish Football Association have since confirmed that Donovan has withdrawn from the Scotland Under-21 squad ahead of fixtures against the Czech Republic and Portugal, raising further doubts over his immediate availability.

In a somewhat surprising development, Anthony Ralston has been included in the senior Scotland squad, despite sitting behind Donovan in the pecking order at club level. It remains to be seen how Brendan Rodgers will navigate his options should injuries persist.

There is also uncertainty surrounding Araujo, who has returned to Bournemouth for treatment, leaving Celtic light in defensive areas. The international break may offer a brief window for recovery, but the situation remains far from settled.

Elsewhere, Martin O’Neill has indicated that Arne Engels could return within the next week, a development that would be welcomed after his absence has been keenly felt.