Chris Sutton has questioned Sam Johnstone’s explanation for Celtic’s sloppy passing during Sunday’s 2-1 victory over Hibernian at Easter Road.

The former Celtic striker took to X after the goalkeeper suggested that the difficult weather conditions had contributed to some of the misplaced passes during a challenging afternoon in Edinburgh.

Martin O’Neill’s side were forced to battle strong winds as they recovered from an early deficit to secure another important Premiership victory.

See the Celtic fixtures for 2026/27 for what comes next.

Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, he said: “Yeah, difficult, difficult, but for everyone it’s the same.

“Even for the lads here, the ball goes in the air and you don’t know where it’s going to go and it’s blowing everywhere.

“As you could see, there were a few sloppy passes, but probably more down to the weather, really.

“Like I said, it was tough, but the lads dug in and we showed that other side to us that can dig in and get the win.”

However, Sutton wasn’t entirely convinced by the goalkeeper’s assessment.

Sam Johnstone blaming the weather for sloppy passing is a stretch I think😂😂

— Chris Sutton (@chris_sutton73) October 25, 2026

The light-hearted criticism came after Celtic endured a difficult opening against Hibernian, conceding inside three minutes before quickly restoring parity through a Jason Kerr own goal.

Camilo Durán then produced the decisive moment shortly before half-time, scoring his tenth Celtic goal to put the visitors ahead.

Despite taking the lead, Celtic struggled to establish control for long periods, with Hibs continuing to threaten during the second half.

Johnstone was called upon to make an important save as the hosts pushed for an equaliser, while Celtic’s defence had to withstand late pressure.

The goalkeeper was pleased with the determination his teammates showed to protect their advantage.

“Lads dug in, that’s a massive win for us,” he told Sky Sports.

“They gave it their all and we had to defend really well most of the game, to be fair. So, yeah, massive win.”

Sutton’s comments add another perspective to a performance that delivered three valuable points without Celtic being at their fluent best.

Johnstone’s involvement is also attracting attention following his return to the side.

The Englishman has started Celtic’s last two fixtures ahead of Viljami Sinisalo, although O’Neill has yet to confirm whether he intends to make a permanent change in goal.

With Dundee United visiting Celtic Park on Wednesday, the manager faces another decision over which goalkeeper will start as Celtic look to maintain their advantage at the top of the Premiership.

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