Scales’ praise matters because it comes from close range. He knows Johnston’s standards on the training ground, his personality in the dressing room and the energy he brings down the flank.
That kind of endorsement fits the picture Johnston has built over the last few seasons: aggressive, reliable and hard to replace when missing.
Johnston’s comeback appears to have given Celtic an immediate lift. He reportedly played an important part in the closing stretch of the season as the club finished with the Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup.
For a side that asks full-backs to defend open spaces and still offer thrust going forward, Johnston is a particularly valuable fit. He brings:
It is no surprise reports continue to link him with interest from outside Scotland, even after his contract renewal.
For Canada, Johnston looks just as important. In a team that wants intensity and personality, he can help set the tone. After a lengthy lay-off, getting him back on the pitch before a major tournament could be a significant boost, especially because he blends experience with relentless running and competitive edge.
The friendly in Montreal may bring a light-hearted shirt-swap moment, but the bigger story is Johnston’s value on both fronts. If he stays fit, the next few weeks could show just how central he is to Canada’s ambitions - and why Celtic will hope he remains at Parkhead for a while yet.