Johnson hopes to make up for lost time
Manchester City and England winger Adam Johnson has spoken of his disappointment at not making the World Cup squad this summer, but vowed “to make up for lost time” with the national side.
Johnson, who netted in both of England’s European Championships 2012 qualifiers in the past week, hopes to now put that disappointment behind him and focus on establishing himself in Fabio Capello’s new-look England side. Despite not starting in the matches against Bulgaria and Switzerland respectively, the former Middlesbrough man starred as a substitute with his directness, flair and confidence in front of goal. The 23-year-old is definitely one for the future, but will have to compete with the likes of Theo Walcott, Aaron Lennon and James Milner for a spot on either flank. In his current form though, he would be a difficult name to leave off the teamsheet for the next set of fixtures.
Speaking after England’s impressive win in Switzerland, Johnson seemed happy with England’s 100% start to their qualifying campaign. He stated: "We are playing really well at the minute, I thought the two results were good for us – six points and top of the group. We are looking forward to the next game now." You won’t find too many England fans getting carried away though, as memories of the Three Lions’ outstanding qualifying campaign for this summer’s World Cup finals will still be fresh in the mind – and we all know how that one ended.
Johnson does represent the new influx of players though, ousting some of the old ‘Golden Generation’ that promised so much, yet delivered so little. The country will still hope for an equally impressive qualifying campaign as last time, but hopefully with a different ending. And on evidence of the last two games, Johnson may well prove pivotal to any future success.
Tags: