Martin O’Neill is optimistic that Colby Donovan and Alistair Johnston will return to action for Celtic within the next few weeks…The Hoops are currently dealing with a shortage of options at right-back. Johnston has spent much of the season sidelined, while January loanee Julian Araujo is also facing a lengthy spell out and isn’t expected to play for Celtic again.

Donovan has now added to the concerns after sustaining an injury during last Sunday’s 2-1 victory against Dundee at Dens Park.

O’Neill confirmed that the Scotland under-21 international will miss both tomorrow’s clash with St Mirren and the upcoming Scottish Cup semi-final against the Buddies next Sunday. However, he is expected to be back in contention ahead of the top six fixtures.

Colby Donovan of Celtic controls the ball under pressure from Will Ferry of Dundee United during the Scottish Premiership match between Dundee United and Celtic at Tannadice Park on March 22, 2026. (Photo by Zak Mauger/Getty Images)

Speaking via Celtic’s official YouTube channel at yesterday’s media conference, O’Neill said: “Colby has a hamstring problem, so he’ll be out. Hopefully not too long, I don’t think so anyway. Next week as well too, but he’s doing well.”

Alistair Johnston has taken a significant step forward in his recovery, returning to training with the rest of the squad and being put through his paces at Lennoxtown yesterday morning.

The Canadian has not featured since October and is not expected to be available for this afternoon’s encounter against St Mirren at Celtic Park.

O’Neill added: “He’s trained with the team today, which was very encouraging. I don’t think he felt any ill effects. He has joined in, he joined in before and then he went and injured himself with the national team. But he’s coming up well, and we need him as soon as possible.”

“No, we don’t really know [when he will be back]. If he comes through today, the work he did with the team and also on his own, then next week will hopefully be a good week’s training for him and then who knows?”

Quick Tip – Add thecelticstar.com as your ‘Preferred Source’ on Google News for quick access to the Celtic content you value the most. It takes just a few seconds and you’ll notice the difference straight away! – Click HERE….Hail Hail!

Celtic boss on Colby Donovan and Alistair Johnston injuries

Martin O’Neill talks up Robbie Keane’s attributes for Celtic job

Scottish FA announces Independent Lead for Glasgow Derby disorder