Mikey Johnston’s loan move from Celtic to West Bromwich Albion has been one of the surprises of the season.
Overlooked by many at Celtic Park, Johnston has quickly become a pivotal figure for West Brom, enchanting fans with his flair and crucial goals as the team vies for a playoff position in the English Championship.
Johnston’s journey to West Brom has been transformative, not just for his career trajectory but also for his confidence on the pitch.
The Scottish winger has been a revelation, displaying the kind of form and consistency that has long been expected from him.
Speaking to Birmingham Live, Johnston articulated the significant difference in his playing circumstances, highlighting the newfound trust and opportunity he’s received at Albion. “It feels more like it’s my position to lose here,” Johnston said, emphasising the competitive but supportive environment at the club. His remarks suggest a contrast to his time under Brendan Rodgers at Celtic, where a combination of limited trust and frequent injuries hampered his ability to secure a consistent run in the first team.
At the heart of Johnston’s resurgence is the crucial aspect of having a run of games in his natural position, backed by the trust of his manager and teammates. This foundation has allowed him to excel and contribute significantly to West Brom’s ambitions. “I’ve had that while I’ve been here and it’s what’s helped me kick on,” Johnston told Birmingham live, acknowledging the difference in his experiences at West Brom compared to his challenging periods at Celtic.
“Earlier in my career I had a lot of injuries, was in and out and was always trying to establish myself,” he recounted. This narrative has changed at West Brom, where the winger has finally found the continuity and confidence needed to showcase his potential.
Despite the affection and admiration Johnston has garnered at West Brom, his future remains a subject of speculation. With his current form, a permanent move away from Celtic seems increasingly likely, suggesting that his time at the Scottish club may indeed be over no matter how things pan out.
Celtic could earn a decent amount of money for their academy bhoy when he was worth very little at the beginning of this season.
