Sam Johnstone insists Celtic’s thrilling victory over Besiktas should be regarded as the beginning of their revival rather than proof that their problems are behind them.
Martin O’Neill’s side edged out the Turkish club 3-2 in a pulsating Europa League contest, ending a run of four consecutive European defeats and just three victories in their previous 10 matches in all competitions.
While the result arrived at a crucial moment, the goalkeeper knows Celtic still have plenty of work to do before the win can be described as a genuine turning point in a difficult campaign.
Asked whether the team’s confidence had been damaged by the poor run, Johnstone said: ‘Of course it has. Results have an effect.
‘This club is not accustomed to losing, and we have probably lost too many matches for a club of this size.
‘We all understand that, but the only thing we can do is try to put it right in every game.
‘The players go into every match determined to win, so the atmosphere within the group is good.
‘It has been difficult. We are honest players and honest people, and we are honest with one another.
‘You saw that on Thursday night. The players battled hard and earned the result.’
Johnstone joined Celtic from Wolves on a season-long loan and was given his opportunity by O’Neill, but he was then dropped after an underwhelming performance in the 3-0 defeat to Rangers at Ibrox on September 13.
Celtic goalkeeper is gradually settling into Scottish football after a challenging beginning
However, after starting the last five matches ahead of Viljami Sinisalo, the former England international feels he is beginning to build momentum.
‘Any player needs a consistent run of matches to find their rhythm,’ Johnstone explained.
‘This was a new club and a new team for me, so it naturally takes a few games to settle in.
‘I needed to understand the defenders, and they needed to understand me. That relationship only develops by playing matches. It is great to be back in the team.
‘I love playing, and this is a fantastic team and club to represent. We are taking things one match at a time, and now we go again on Sunday.’
Johnstone arrived in Glasgow as Celtic entered a difficult spell, with the team struggling to produce consistent performances and results.
Despite that, he maintains he has never questioned his decision to move north of the border. He added: ‘The expectation at this club, quite rightly, is to win matches.
‘Unfortunately, we have not always reached that standard, and the players are fully aware of it.
‘As I said, we want to win every game and correct the things that have gone wrong.
Celtic produced a dramatic comeback to secure a vital Europa League win over Besiktas
‘Playing for this club is brilliant. You feel the passion of the supporters, whether things are going well or badly, and the quality of the players is evident every day in training and matches.
‘When the opportunity came, I said I did not need to think twice about joining Celtic.’
Johnstone had heard plenty about the atmosphere at Celtic Park during major European nights and was delighted to experience it first-hand.
‘It was incredible to see this stadium rocking and to be part of a win,’ he said.
‘It is a brilliant feeling to play in front of supporters with that level of passion. Their energy helps the players and pushes us forward.
‘There were periods when we struggled, as you would expect against this level of opposition, but the players stayed together and fought through it. These matches are never easy.
‘The Europa League is full of top-quality teams, and after last week’s result we knew there was significant pressure on us. The players responded when it mattered.
‘We still have an opportunity to qualify, and that remains our objective. We will approach the next match just as we approach every other one: with the intention of winning.’
