INGURY NEWS:Alistair Johnston sustains a severe injury while playing for Celtic, requiring him to be stretchered off during the match against Hibernian.

Celtic have been dealt a huge injury blow after Alistair Johnston was stretchered off early against Hibs.

The Canadian right-back lasted just nine minutes during tonight’s Premiership encounter at Easter Road after going down falling a nasty clash of heads with Nectarios Triantis. Johnston appeared in real discomfort and required lengthy medical attention on the pitch before being replaced by Anthony Ralston.

Celts were awarded a penalty by Nick Walsh following the collision and Adam Idah made no mistake from the spot by opening his goal account for the Hoops to put the visitors in front in Edinburgh. However, Johnston’s injury will be of real concern to the Scottish champions, who are already without left-back Greg Taylor. Johnston, 25, was immediately taken to hospital for a full medical examination but was conscious as he left the field of play.

Brendan Rodgers’ side can move three points clear of Rangers with a victory in Leith tonight, albeit Gers will have a game in hand having gone level on points with their Old Firm rivals following last night’s win over Aberdeen.