Celtic confirm signing of Canada World Cup star Alistair Johnston

Celtic have signed Canada right-back Alistair Johnston as the club confirm their second new signing of the mid-season break.

The 24-year-old, who starred at the World Cup in games against Belgium, Croatia and Morocco, has signed a five-year-deal with the Scottish champions.

He joins from MLS side CF Montreal.

The move follows the signing of Japanese defender Yuki Kobayashi who also signed a five-year deal at Celtic Park.

🆕✍️ #JohnstonAnnounced!

We are delighted to announce the signing of Canadian International defender Alistair Johnston on a 5-year deal, subject to international clearance.

Welcome to #CelticFC, Alistair! 🍀🇨🇦
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) December 3, 2022

Manager Ange Postecoglou says he is “delighted” with the signing.

He said: “I’m delighted. He’s someone we identified pretty early on as somebody we think can add to our club

“He’s had an interesting career path where he’s had to work very hard to get to where he is, and we’re very happy to conclude the deal and knowing he was going to the World Cup, I think he performed well there as well.

“He’s really keen to come across and take the next step in his career, and I think he’ll be a great fit in our dressing-room, and he’ll definitely add something to our football as well.

“He’s predominantly played on the right side of defence, at centre-back or right-back. He’s very good technically, very good going forward and also a really strong competitor and he doesn’t mind the physical aspects of the game, and as I said, I think he’ll add something to our club.”

The move is subject to international clearance and Johnston will be available to play from January 1.