New Celtic recruit Alistair Johnston has revealed he held a post match debrief with new teammate Josip Juranovic at the World Cup - and has now backed the Croat to lift the trophy.
The right-back will provide competition for Juranovic at Celtic Park, should he continue his stay in the Scottish Premiership amid mounting speculation he could be set to leave the club after failed contract negotiations. The 26-year-old's stock is rapidly rising after an impressive showing in Qatar against Brazil that has helped his country reach the World Cup semi-final.
Johnston's arrival has been considered by many as succession planning by Ange Postecoglou for life after Juranovic, but the Canadian international has revealed there was no bad blood between the pair in the Middle East. The players were on opposite sides during the final game on Group F, where Croatia ran out 4-1 winners shortly after Johnston's switch to Celtic from CF Montreal was rubber stamped.
Speaking at his official unveiling at Celtic Park, Johnston reveals that Juranovic abandoned Croatia's post-match celebrations for a chat with his future Parkhead pal. He said: "I did actually talk to him a bit after (the game). He just said hello and he was really good about coming out of his way to make sure he found me, even after a big 4-1 win for them.
"He's had a great World Cup and was one of the best players on the pitch (against Canada). He has been showing that all World Cup, so let's hope that Croatia can keep doing what they are doing and potentially lift the World Cup at this point."
Johnston left MLS side Montreal and former Celtic star Victor Wanyama when he put pen to paper on a deal, and he admitted the ex Tottenham and Southampton midfielder gave him a glowing report card on the move. He said: "Celtic probably came up about two months ago, and at that point I was still at Montreal.
"It was funny because I brought up Celtic to Victor Wanyama, just low key. I said 'hey there might be some interest from Celtic, what are your thoughts on that?'
"He said 'I've played at some massive clubs, in the Premier League, but there is nothing quite like Celtic'. He said everywhere you go it's 'Hail Hail' and still to this day when he is back over here he gets recognised, not for being a Spurs player but for Celtic.
"He said the fans are unbelievable. The size, the stature of the club and thought it would be a great fit for me. When I heard that glowing recommendation my heart and mind were pretty set on Celtic."
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