Mikey Johnston happy to be involved and ready to impress

Mikey Johnston is first to admit that he is fortunate to be involved in the Ireland squad ahead of the final Euro 2024 qualifier against the Netherlands.

The mercurial winger has become an integral part of Stephen Kenny's squad over the past year, however, he is struggling to clock up the minutes back at his club in Glasgow.

Johnston first came into the squad when out on loan in the Portuguese league, playing for Vitória de Guimarães, however, since returning to parent club, Celtic, he has yet to command a place in new coach Brendan Rodgers' starting XI.

In fact, Johnston is still struggling to make the matchday squad at the Parkhead club, who are involved in Champions League group stage football at the moment, and he has only made one league appearance this season.

Having been at his boyhood club since his school days, and still dreaming of playing Champions League football for the Bhoys, Johnston has not given up on his hopes of breaking into the first team, however, he hinted that he may have to look at his options in the not-too-distant future.

But in the meantime, he brings an element of excitement that is evidently lacking in this Ireland squad and as a result, he has enjoyed plenty of game-time in the current qualifying campaign.

Johnston was sprung off the bench for his international debut in a March friendly encounter with Latvia, where he made an immediate impact to help Kenny’s side come from behind to win 3-2.

Just days later, he was sent on for the final stages of Ireland’s riveting opening qualifier at home to France, where Kenny’s side bombarded the France goal in the closing minutes in an attempt to salvage something against their esteemed opponents.

Unfortunately, Kenny’s tactics were foiled on that occasion as