Celtic signing Alistair Johnston ‘will need to get better’ on the defensive side of things before playing in the Scottish Premiership, according to former Hoops star Frank McAvennie.

The Lowdown: Johnston signs

The Hoops confirmed the signing of the right-back from CF Montreal last weekend after putting pen to paper on a five-year deal, which will see him make the move to Parkhead in January.

Josip Juranovic, Ange Postecoglou’s first-choice in that position, has rejected a new contract and is open to listening to offers from other clubs, so the boss had no option but to act quickly and secure a probable replacement.

The Latest: McAvennie’s comments

Speaking to Football Insider, Hoops 'expert' McAvennie admitted that he watched Johnston representing Canada at the World Cup, believing he needs to develop his defensive attributes more.

“He will need to get better because Canada got absolutely battered down that side.

“He is a decent player, he did very well especially when they were on the attack in the first game. He just went for it.

“That is where he was different class and that is the kind of game Celtic play.

“I am looking forward to anyone who comes in because Ange has the Midas touch.“

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The Verdict: Bags of potential

Johnston has been praised for putting in a ‘blood and thunder’ performance in Qatar by Chris Smith, and whilst his national squad struggled, he’s had an impressive personal season in the MLS.

The Vancouver native has clocked up four goals and the same number of assists this term and is a versatile player with the ability to operate at centre-back and even right midfield when playing in an attacking system (Transfermarkt).

The Canadian also already has 32 international caps to his name, making him an extremely exciting addition when he makes the transition to Glasgow in the New Year.