Alistair Johnston Celtic injury update as Jesse Marsch gives official word on fitness for Hearts clash

Jesse Marsch has moved to ease Celtic's injury fears over Alistair Johnston.

The Hoops right back was forced off during Canada's 2-1 friendly win over neighbours USA at Children's Mercy park in Kansas City. Brendan Rodgers' side take on Hearts next weekend as they seek to continue their 100 per cent to the Premiership season following last weekend's 3-0 win over Rangers to send them five points clear in the title race.

Anthony Ralston, who started for Scotland in their 3-2 Nations League defeat to Portugal, was on standby after Johnston was withdrawn by Marsch, having played understudy to the Canadian at Parkhead for the last 18 months or so. But the Bhoys can breathe easy after Canucks boss Marsch confirmed that it was more of a precaution than anything else and that's why Johnston was taken out of the fray against the United States, which should leave him free to gace the Jambos.

“Alistair said he felt a little bit of tightness in his hamstring and he felt it was smarter to step out," said Marsch. “I am hopeful that he will be okay. Follow Record Sport on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for all of the up-to-the minute breaking news, video and audio on the SPFL, the Scotland national team and beyond.

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