“My older brother unfortunately is over in Vancouver, so another three hours behind, so at 4.30am he missed the kick-off and he couldn’t believe they started me, so that was a funny one with the family.

“It was a special day and they were super excited for me after the match and they couldn’t believe it.”

The hard work continues for Johnston and the rest of the Celtic team with a doubleheader coming up against Kilmarnock, one on Saturday in the league before the League Cup semi-final the following weekend.

The Canadian internationalist’s time at the club has been a steep learning curve so far in terms of understanding his new role at right-back under Ange Postecoglou, and he is keeping his head down to continue to learn under the Australian.

He added: “That’s one of the best parts about this team, that the squad’s so deep and there’s so much competition for places, so just because you started one match doesn’t mean you will start the next.

'This club has put such an emphasis on having good quality players in every position so that’s what it’s been like.'

“For me, it’s also the mental aspect of it where you have to be tuned in at all moments because you’re playing in positions, compared to what you played growing up, it’s not completely natural.

“That’s something the manager and coaching team have pushed on me to be mentally tuned in and sense where that space is.

“That’s my next progression in the next couple of months and I’ve been lucky to play with great fullbacks here who have been helping me with the ins and outs of it which is nice as well.

“We’re getting ready for a couple of big matches against Kilmarnock and we know they won’t be an easy opposition.

“We’re all focused on that and we need to keep looking forward in the leagues and the cups.

“It’s exactly what you want when you sign on the dotted line to become a Celtic player, the thought of lifting a trophy and competing for them is something that drives every one of us and that’s why we all want to be at this football club.”

The game on Saturday could see Johnston get his first taste out on the pitch at Celtic Park, and whether his first appearance comes against Kilmarnock or at a later date he can’t wait for that experience.

“I’ve been there now a couple of times in December watching the home matches and what an atmosphere it was,” he said.

“The welcome I got walking through the stands was special so I can’t imagine what it’s like being on the pitch – it will be another level altogether.

“Hopefully I will be able to get out there on Celtic Park and I’m really looking forward to that day because it will be a really special one.”

Derby was a special day for Alistair Johnston but it's full focus on Kilmarnock