Celtic's Johnston Returns to Training as Araujo's Season Hangs in Balance

Celtic has received a boost with the return of long-term absentee Alistair Johnston to training, while loan defender Julian Araujo's season may be over due to a setback in his recovery from a thigh injury. Johnston, who has been out since October with a hamstring issue, joined his teammates at the club's Lennoxtown training complex ahead of the Scottish Premiership match against St Mirren. Meanwhile, Araujo, who is on loan from Bournemouth, has suffered a setback in his recovery and may not play for Celtic again this season. Celtic manager Martin O'Neill confirmed that Johnston participated in training and showed no ill effects, but Araujo's situation is less promising. 'He trained with the team today, which was very encouraging,' O'Neill said of Johnston. 'I don't think he felt any ill effects.' Regarding Araujo, O'Neill stated, 'Julian re-injured himself under supervision at Bournemouth, so that was a real blow. I've only found that out today, so 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 match against St Mirren with a hamstring injury. On a positive note, the Green Brigade, Celtic's ultras group, will return to Celtic Park after a five-month ban was lifted. O'Neill welcomed the news, saying, 'The support is very strong, it's great, and I would like if that was the case, just to park things now and let's see what the summer brings.' The title race remains intense, with Hearts leading the way, followed closely by Rangers and Celtic. O'Neill acknowledged that Hearts' position is enviable, 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.'