The Celtic faithful understand that in order for Brendan Rodgers to bring in quality additions this summer, it will necessitate the departure of some players currently at the club.

Rodgers has previously acknowledged that the squad is overly large and needs to be streamlined. To kickstart this process, the Hoops manager initiated moves in January by allowing David Turnbull to depart and sending fringe players like Hyeokkyu Kwon and Marco Tilio out on loan.

Certainly, more exits are expected in the upcoming summer transfer window. Players like Gustaf Lagerbielke seem to be on the way out, and even Maik Nawrocki, though currently sidelined due to injury, has struggled to secure playing time since his £4.3 million transfer from Legia Warsaw.

Nevertheless, there are players out on loan who are either striving to catch the manager’s eye for the next season or aiming to impress for a potential move elsewhere.

Andy Walker is of the opinion that Mikey Johnston falls into the latter category, especially after his standout loan spell at West Brom.

Former Celtic forward Walker expressed his admiration for Johnston’s performances at West Brom since joining on loan in January. He believes that the change of scenery away from Parkhead has reinvigorated the Republic of Ireland winger.

On The Go Radio Football Show, Walker remarked, “You see what’s happened with Mikey Johnston. He was always under a bit of pressure, but he’s been given a new lease of life. He’s down at West Brom. He’s tearing it up and everyone’s loving him the way he’s playing for West Brom.”

Walker emphasized Johnston’s talent and applauded his fearlessness in taking on opponents. The ex-striker also hinted that Johnston might end up extending his stay at West Brom, indicating that it could be a beneficial career move for him.

With Johnston excelling at West Brom, Celtic’s bargaining power is set to increase as they hold the player under contract until 2026, bolstering their negotiating position.

It’s evident that Johnston is a skilled player, but his struggles under the pressure of representing Celtic have been noticed. A summer move could be mutually beneficial for both the player and the club, as suggested by Walker and echoed by many observers.