Celtic midfielder Scott Brown has expressed strong confidence in goalkeeper Sam Johnstone ahead of the club’s upcoming match against Rangers at Ibrox. The 33-year-old, currently on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers, could be preferred over Viljami Sinisalo following a promising debut performance in Celtic’s recent fixture against St Johnstone at McDiarmid Park.

Johnstone, a former England international, kept a clean sheet while making several crucial saves, including a notable stop at close range that prevented St Johnstone from taking the lead. Brown praised the goalkeeper’s composure and communication, highlighting his experience and reliability as key assets for the team in high-pressure matches.

“He was very good, made a couple of special saves and worked hard in training during the week,” Brown said. “I was impressed with the calmness he had on the ball, there was no fear in him. That breeds confidence, not just for himself but for the team as well. You want to have that type of player in a big game.”

Brown added that Johnstone’s handling of crosses and clear communication with the defensive line reinforced his belief that the keeper is a "safe pair of hands." “He’s an experienced goalie who has been around the block,” Brown said. “I was really pleased with his performance and he will be pushing to start the Old Firm game.”

In addition to comments on Johnstone, Brown touched on Celtic’s ongoing search for a new manager following recent changes in the coaching staff. He acknowledged that negotiations to appoint a new head coach have been progressing more slowly than anticipated but expressed optimism that the club will secure the right candidate.

“Negotiations are ongoing. It has been a little slower than we’d like but I am confident we will get there,” Brown said. “I want to see the right man come in who will do the job properly. You need someone the players are comfortable working with and who can get us winning again.”

As Celtic prepare for their highly anticipated Old Firm fixture this Sunday, Brown’s endorsement underscores the club’s reliance on experienced players like Johnstone to navigate one of Scottish football’s most intense rivalries, while the managerial situation remains unsettled.