I've been critical at times but he's a solid full back and very good going forward, until we have replacement come through Ryan McG then I would keep him.
I don't think he'll be gone in the summer. He's a bit like Gerrard in that you feel 'safer' when his name's on the team sheet. Difficult to explain but sometimes players bring more to the game than their skills, there's an unseen effect, something that makes the team as a whole play better, yet you can't quantify what it is.
I actually keep changing my mind on Johnson, both in terms of rating and whether he be in BR's plans. My biggest criticis of Johnson is inconsistency; he has the ability in both attach and defense but doesn't always perform to his own high standards. He often looks disinterested too, he also falls into the 'lazy' category for me at times (but not all the time). I think it would be a good time to cash in on him IF we can get a suitable replacement but can we do that?
I know what you mean, sometimes he looks really hungry and up for it and then other days he can't control a 5 foot pass. Strange - but I do like seeing him in the starting line up.
I've said he hasn't played as well since last Xmas. But when he was out, we missed him. Even the off form Johnson. Just a shame he is so injury prone.
think it depends on the fitness of Kelly myself. rather he stayed but he is a top earner and if we dont get cl football he may be a target to get rid.
Overall I want him on the team, choosing from our existing squad. His decision making as to when to take a man (or several men) on can be dodgey and by losing the ball so high up he leaves (not on his own here) our CB's exposed to the counter. Having said that I'd rather he attacked as he does than not at all. I'm no longer as critical of him and Enrique defensively due to the job theyre asked to do. No matter how fit, being asked to attack with the regularity they do will always risk exposing them defensively. As long as I see him/them trying to get back I'll not complain and in fact I'll start looking at the rest of our midfield to think smarter and cover them.
Is it an age thing? the younger generation are more used to belonging to our 'disposable' society - it doesn't work, get a new one - instead of fixing or sorting things out just let it go and get a new one. It's a serious question btw.
Well you are his baby after all Seriously, it is feasible. But, I think football in general has gone that way.
