Ireland boss Stephen Kenny has praised Celtic winger Mikey Johnston, calling him "brave" for going on loan to Portuguese side Vitoria de Guimaraes.

The 23-year-old is on the books of the Primeira Liga side until the end of the season and has scored three goals and three assists in 22 appearances so far.

His performances have earned him a call-up to the Ireland squad for their friendly against Lativa and first Euro 2024 qualifier v France.

It is the first time the forward has been called up to the squad since making the switch from Scotland earlier this month.

Kenny said: "Mikey is someone I've been aware of for a long time. He broke on the scene very quickly at Celtic and played in four cup finals before he was 22.

"But he had been out injured for a year and it was a tough one for a young player to lose his rhythm like that.

"It affects your career and he's obviously seen a lot of players come in and bypass him at Celtic because they signed a lot of players when he was injured.

"It was a brave step to go to Portugal, it's a tough league with a lot of good teams in it.

"It's not all upward curve for Mikey. He's played 21 games this season between starts and off the bench.

He has different characteristics that will add to the squad. We mustn't expect a major impact from him in this camp but it's a good introduction for him."

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Johnston previously stated the decision to change international allegiance had an emotional pull as well as a footballing one.

"Myself and my family have always been proud of our Irish roots, with my grandad hailing from Derry," he said. "To potentially now play for Ireland is something that really excites me.

“I’m delighted to declare for the Republic of Ireland and excited for what my future holds in an Ireland shirt.

"It’s up to me now to impress the manager and to get selected to the squad, but my focus now is to break into that squad and to make an impact for the team in a big year for the team.

"I’ve always watched Ireland matches and the atmosphere always looks incredible. I can’t wait to play at the Aviva Stadium and hopefully create some great moments for the team.”