The start of the new season is almost upon us as the Bhoys get set to return to Paradise on Sunday for the league opener.

Brendan Rodgers and his squad kick-off the campaign by welcoming St Mirren to the East End of Glasgow, kick starting the defence of their title.

It has been a busy and productive pre-season for the Hoops, with trips to Ireland, Portugal and Italy setting the tone along with a number of competitive friendly outings.

Following a busy summer, the squad is now raring to go, including Alistair Johnston, who returned to action in the final friendly match against Al-Ahli.

With the new season set to get underway, the Canadian full-back spoke to the media ahead of Sunday’s game, assessing what is set to be a busy start to the season.

But with the hard work put in during pre-season, Johnston believes the squad are now ready to go as they eye up their first three points.

He said: “We’re excited for the season. It’s another fresh slate to start a season here. There’s a lot of talented and hungry players in the group.

“So, it’s another great opportunity for us, but it also starts off pretty heavy as well.

“You’ve got a big month obviously with the Champions League qualifier, and that will really set the tone for how the season’s going to go.

'But so far it’s been a great pre-season. We are ready to go and get this campaign underway.'

“I always think that there is so much talent within our squad, and also with the young players what they have shown throughout pre-season – they will definitely be able to add something to the squad.

“Overall, I think for anyone watching the pre-season, there was some really good moments barring a half here or there.

“But we learn from that and build on it. I think the morale and quality of the team that we have here is strong enough to go and achieve the goals that we want.

“We have plenty of quality and experience as well.”

Alistair Johnston: Flag Day is always a special day to be involved in