SENTINELCELTS

There I was stuck for a topic when Ange Postecoglou uttered those most rarest of words,,,
Mikey Johnson is available which is good.

Of course it’s good. I recall a Celtic TV powder puff piece from a few years ago, a stage managed piece of feel good material to give the support something of interest, some insights they might find interesting.
“Who’s the most naturally gifted player in the squad?” the player was asked.
Without hesitation “Mikey Johnson” he replied.
What he does in training, wows us regular, could be a top player, etc etc.
But my eyebrows were raised. That’s when I really started watching the kid.
Or would have watched the kid I should say. He’s never fecking there, or at least it seems that way!

I recall Arsene pinning his hopes on an injury prone player, wanting to build his team around Diaby. Four years in a row he very quickly developed a season ending injury, was reluctantly moved on, and never reached his potential in the sport.
He was Arsenal’s Mikey Johnson, at least so far, showing that it happens and that’s just the way it is. Some bodies or frames just aren’t made for a very grueling sport, running almost non stop, at least under Ange you should be.

It’s a crying shame when a talent doesn’t achieve what they could have. I recall thinking if Aiden had Henrik’s drive and application he would have a lot more trophies in the cabinet. Mikey might have the correct application, and the skill level to make a real name, but it’s the physique that’s the issue, and that just can’t be cured.

Don’t get me wrong, zero hate here for the bhoy, and I truly hope he shoves these words down my neck, but it’s fair to say I have genuine doubts whether we shall ever witness Mikey as a regular first team player.
Especially under Ange as he can’t handle regular footie nevermind Anges pressing game.

Although he could become an impact sub, the potential game changer on the bench.
No defensive duties to preserve him?
The floating outball tasked with making magic?
Would a cold clinical eye not suggest playing him in bursts, rather than games, given his injury littered history?
I don’t see much alternative to the above.
And even at that anything could happen.

I wouldn’t be surprised if he went down in the first fifteen minutes, but wouldn’t discount a late appearance and assist from our fragile treasure in waiting.
I would be stunned if he started, but not if he scored, which would only add to his mystique.

This weekend if we are offered the opportunity to view young master Johnson in the beautiful hoops, store those scenes somewhere deep in your Celtic loving memory bank.
Just in case.

Now go shut me up and make that away crowd sing,,,
“There’s only one Mikey Johnson!”