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

Alistair Johnston, a long-term absentee, has resumed training with Celtic, while loan defender Julian Araujo may have played his last game for the club due to a thigh injury. Johnston, Canada's right-back, has been sidelined since October with a hamstring issue but joined his teammates at the Lennoxtown training complex ahead of the Scottish Premiership match against St Mirren. Araujo, who has been out for over a month, experienced a setback during his recovery at parent club Bournemouth. Celtic manager Martin O'Neill stated, 'He [Johnston] trained with the team today, which was very encouraging... I don't think he felt any ill effects.' However, O'Neill expressed concerns about Araujo, saying, 'Julian re-injured himself under supervision at Bournemouth... I don't think we will see him for the rest of the season.' Right-back Colby Donovan will miss Saturday's game due to a hamstring injury and may also be sidelined for the Scottish Cup tie against the Saints. O'Neill welcomed the return of the Green Brigade, Celtic's ultras group, after a five-month ban was lifted, and acknowledged the team's position in the title race, saying, 'I would still rather be in Hearts' position just now.'