‘Don’t waste a single minute’ – Alistair Johnston stresses the importance of Celtic’s home advantage in Champions League

Alistair Johnston understands how important it is for Celtic to make the most of their Champions League qualifier by hosting the first leg at home.

Celtic will face Kairat Almaty, which upset Slovan Bratislava by overcoming them on penalties.

Kairat lost their league game leading up to the match, while the Hoops defeated Falkirk in the Premier Sports Cup.

Adam Rooney believes Celtic would have preferred to face Slovan, and Johnston understands the importance of a strong lead heading into the return leg in Almaty.

Alistair Johnston wants to get the tie done in the first leg

Johnston is used to operating under duress at Celtic and understands how important this Champions League game is.

The trip to Kazakhstan is difficult for any player, and he has called on his teammates to help him get the job done at Celtic Park.

He told the Daily Mail: “I spoke with the lads who played Astana. They had a good advantage going into the second leg, but it can quickly become tricky out there.

“That travel, the time changes, everything. It is not an easy away day at all. So, make sure to take full advantage at home when the conditions are favorable and the crowd is on our side.

“I don’t believe that’s lost on us. Being a two-legged game, and us being at home first, there will be a mentality that says, “Okay, if you get one, you’ve got to keep pushing.”

“It’s going to have to be 90 minutes and don’t waste a single minute of it.”

Celtic will have a strong squad ready for Kairat Almaty.

Brendan Rodgers will have a large number of players to choose from the roster.

Only Hayato Inamura is missing from Celtic’s lineup for their match against Kairat, and on paper, the Bhoys should go to the next round.

With £40 million on the line, the Hoops understand how critical these two games against Kazakhstan’s Premier League leaders will be.