http://www.liverpoolfc.com/news/latest-news/i-was-no-good-when-i-joined-liverpool By letting himself into Melwood for after-hours training, Craig Johnston recovered from being described as the 'worst footballer ever' to retire at 27 with five league championships and a European Cup on his CV. The proud Australian, who was actually born in South Africa, fell in love with football by watching Match of the Day with his father from an early age - inspiration which made his choice of career straightforward. Nor did Johnston simply wait around for an opportunity. The determined youngster Down Under wrote to a number of English clubs requesting a trial, although Liverpool was not among them. The midfielder's path would take him to Anfield soon enough, but not before Middlesbrough manager Jack Charlton took one look at the Aussie and dismissed him as 'the worst footballer I've ever seen in my life'. In an episode which typified his professional career as a whole, 'Skippy' overcame the early setback to establish himself in the Boro first team and impress Graeme Souness enough that the tough man recommended his former colleague to Bob Paisley once he had settled on Merseyside. Such was Johnston's inferior attitude, however, he thought a call from then Reds boss Paisley was a practical joke on behalf of a friend. Full article on the link.
Have you seen the " 60 mins with Craig Johnston " interview on LFCTV it was very,very,very emotional he/Craig was in tears for large parts. Matt Critchley asked him, do you want me to stop the interview He had a HUGE family tragedy while playing for us, where I think his sister got carbon monoxide poisononing while holidaying in Morrocco, she was comatosed and sufferered severe brain damage.The MAIN reason why he retired at 27yo was to care for his sister, non of his teammates knew of the tragedy at the time, only Kenny knew Hes had some tough times Craig, but was defo one of my fave players at the time
Such an underrated player. His work rate and passion for the club was immense. That interview was probably the best "60 mins with" i've seen on LFCTV
I'm going to see if I can find that interview, he's one of those players that I liked it's a pity he didn't get to play for us more.
There you go gonz. [video=dailymotion;xtf7n1]http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xtf7n1_60-mins-with-craig-johnston-liverpool-fc_sport#.UTfDp9awhrk[/video]
