Martin O’Neill says Callum Osmand and Alistair Johnston are both in the frame to return for Celtic’s clash with Falkirk tomorrow, offering a timely boost as the season edges toward its final stretch.
It has been a slow recovery for the pair. Johnston has been largely absent since the opening weeks, while Osmand’s early momentum was cut short just as he began to show what he could bring. Now, with the run in taking shape, both are finally nearing a return.
Osmand’s comeback, in particular, could give Celtic something they have missed. There is no shortage of options up front, but very few who consistently look to run in behind. Kelechi Iheanacho tends to drop deep and link play, which has its benefits, but there have been spells where Celtic have lacked that direct threat beyond the defence.
That is where Osmand comes in. His movement off the shoulder offers a different outlet, especially in tighter games where space is limited. Even in short bursts, he can force defenders to think differently and stretch the game when it starts to feel congested.
Speaking ahead of the match, O’Neill offered an update as both players edge closer to being involved again.
He said: (The Herald), “Yeah, Callum and Alistair have been a long, long time out.
“Callum is feeling much, much better with the week that he’s put in. Some days he hasn’t done anything, but he’s come through and he’s been fine.”
Johnston’s potential return adds another layer on the right side. Even if he is not ready to start, having a natural full back available gives Celtic more flexibility, rather than shifting players out of position late in games.
For Osmand, this is more about easing back in than making an instant impact. He has been out for a while, so any minutes will need to be handled carefully. Still, his profile gives O’Neill a different kind of option if the game stalls.
That could be important against Falkirk. If they sit deep, Celtic often need someone willing to run beyond rather than just coming short. Osmand offers that variation.
It also says a lot about how he is viewed internally. Despite limited involvement this season, he is being brought back into the fold at a crucial stage, which suggests the staff believe he can still play a role.
With the fixtures winding down, small details can make a difference. Johnston brings stability. Osmand brings movement. Both have been missing for much of the campaign, and even a limited return gives Celtic something extra to work with in the closing weeks.
