Celtic's Johnston Returns to Training, Araujo's Season in Doubt

Alistair Johnston has resumed training with Celtic following a lengthy layoff due to a hamstring injury, while loan defender Julian Araujo may have played his final game for the club. Johnston, a Canadian right-back, has been out of action since October but joined his teammates at the Lennoxtown training complex ahead of the upcoming Scottish Premiership match against St Mirren. Meanwhile, Araujo, who is on loan from Bournemouth, has suffered a setback in his recovery from a thigh problem and may not feature for Celtic again this season. Celtic manager Martin O'Neill expressed his encouragement at Johnston's progress, saying, 'He trained with the team today, which was very encouraging. I don't think he felt any ill effects.' However, O'Neill was less optimistic about Araujo's chances of returning to action, stating, 'I don't think we will see him for the rest of the season.' The club is also dealing with other injury concerns, including right-back Colby Donovan, who will miss the upcoming match against St Mirren due to a hamstring injury. On a positive note, the Green Brigade, a supporters' group, will be returning to Celtic Park after a five-month ban was lifted. O'Neill welcomed the news, saying, 'The support is very strong, it's great to see them back again.' With the Scottish Premiership title race heating up, O'Neill acknowledged that Hearts are in a strong position, saying, 'I would still rather be in Hearts' position just now. They are in the lead with games running out, that is not a bad position to be in.'