Alistair Johnston did not put in a particularly impressive performance for Canada in their defeat to Croatia yesterday evening.
The 24-year-old is expected to join Celtic in January but he was unable to keep Ivan Perisic quiet as the veteran winger set up two goals.
With the Hoops on the verge of completing a move for the Canadian international, some supporters on Twitter have been debating whether he is good enough for the Scottish champions:
He’s not impressed me at all. Hardly a great replacement for Jura. More downsizing.
— Timor O’Seery (@seery_o) November 27, 2022
Jura sleeping at their goal !
— MJJT (@MJJT88) November 27, 2022
I will go with Ange's opinion on who we buy. Makes a change that it's the managers signings. Trust the process…..
— R@bidPunk77 (@ANOK4U2BESTB484) November 27, 2022
Have Celtic signed Alistair Johnston yet? Might want to rethink. pic.twitter.com/g67Uukeh8p
— Seán McCusker (@1988mccusker) November 27, 2022
Johnston all over the place against Croatia..Looking very shaky – Is it defo confirmed he's going to Celtic ? #CelticFC
— Andy Craig Official / UMAI (@andypcraig) November 27, 2022
Do you think Celtic FC are watching this and having 2nd thoughts on Alistair Johnston ? I would be hes been horrific at closing down on the ball this game…
— tippy toe (@trife76) November 27, 2022
Ironically, Johnston’s potential replacement, Josip Juranovic, was in Croatia’s starting lineup. If you were going to compare the two players based on their performances in last night’s match, you would have to say that the current Celtic player had the better game. Despite arguably not covering himself in glory for Canada’s goal, he did provide an assist for Marko Livaja.
As some fans have said, though, it’s probably wise to trust the judgement of manager Ange Postecogloy and the club’s scouts who have been watching Johnston for more than one game.