Redditch United have been handed a boost with the return of fans’ favourite, Johnny Johnston, to boost their attacking options.
The 20 year-old came off the substitutes’ bench to score their third goal in Monday’s 3-0 Pitching In Southern League Premier Central victory over Hitchin Town, a game that was watched by a crowd of over 1,200 after the club opened its doors with free admission for all.
Joining the club during the summer from Gloucester City, Johnston’s early progress was brought to a shuddering halt following a car crash but following a couple of months out on loan at Boldmere St. Michaels in the Pitching In Northern Premier League Midlands Division, he is back and looking forward to what the second half of the season holds in store for The Reds who sit third in the table.
“It’s been a tough three or four months,” admitted the former Blackpool youngster to his club’s media. “But to be back with the boys again has really lifted my spirits.
“I am feeling good and sharp and ready to kick on. The loan spell was really beneficial for me; I was able to get plenty of minutes under my belt and it’s done my confidence good.
“It will stand me in good stead now I am back here. I know that I will have to fight hard for my starting place because the boys are flying at the moment and have been up amongst the leading pack for most of the season.
“All I can do is try to make an impact when I get my chance, as I did in the last game on Monday.
“There’s a really positive vibe around the whole place at the moment; the dressing room is a great place to be and everyone is so upbeat and positive.
“We’ve put ourselves in a strong position and hopefully we can really build on it over the weeks and months ahead. I’ll be doing all I can to make a contribution and prove that I deserve a starting place.”
Manager, Matt Clarke, added: “JJ is back to where he was before the injury, looking sharp and lively. He is a player that excites people and gets supporters off their seats.
“It’s great to have him back in the squad; he’s one of a number of talented young players we have here who are desperate to make their mark.”
Saturday sees a local derby against Bromsgrove Sporting, a game that is sure to attract another large crowd to The Valley Stadium.
IMAGE: Redditch United FC
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