After wrapping up their training camp in Austria and Switzerland last week, Celtic resumed training in the cool conditions of Lennoxtown in preparation for the game and Johnston admitted he was delighted to be in the squad flying out.

“It’s good to be back at Lennoxtown,” he told Celtic TV. “It’s a little bit easier running about when it’s not over 30-degrees.

“It’s a huge game and one that all the boys are wanting to be involved in. It’s what all the fans are wanting, so I’m delighted to be involved.

“It’s an important game. It’s the first real game of the season and it’s one that everyone’s looking forward to. Everyone wants to be getting into Europe, so it’s a really important game for this club.”

Johnston played in all three of Celtic’s pre-season games and weighed in with two goals on top of his impressive performances. Neil Lennon admitted he has been pleased with Johnston’s pre-season work but the young Hoops winger acknowledged he still has more work to do in order to achieve his goals.

“I thought I played well in a couple of the games. There’s still room for improvement and room to get more fitness work in for the start of the season. I’m feeling quite good, but I can still improve in that area too.

“Hopefully I can step up to the plate and, if I get the chance to play, play well. I need to keep working hard and hopefully the opportunities will keep coming.

“Playing in the group stages of the Champions League is what everyone dreams of growing up. Celtic have always tried to create Champions League players with the Academy and hopefully I can carry that on.”

Johnston: Playing in Champions League would be a dream come true