On his arrival many questioned whether Glen Johnson was over-priced at almost £18 million. No doubt Liverpool paid a premium but the cost wasn‘t quite in line with the quoted fee when the remainder of Peter Crouch‘s transfer value was written off against the asking price.
The right back had recently signed a lengthy contract at Fratton Park as Portsmouth sought to protect an asset they knew would have to go but would have had to allow a much cheaper exit on his old terms. Permission to talk to Champions League clubs was key in the player putting pen to paper.
Not only that the England international brought the quota of qualified players for the 6+5 rule up by an extra one. At times in his career Johnson has been erratic but settled down to become possibly the Premiership’s best English born full back regardless of the flank covered.
Dirk Kuyt’s discipline and work ethic ensures Johnson needs to put in fewer lung bursting runs than he might otherwise expect. The Dutchman will drift backwards or hold to ensure his partner isn’t caught out so often looks to double. But Johnson has put in a decent shift at the back. Even in a struggling side like Portsmouth his meat and potatoes role as a defender shined.
His ability to pass be that in an orthodox fashion or via a cross has been seemingly understated for much of his career.
The ball for Andriy Voronin towards the end of the game with Stoke City was one the highest quality and as good as any of his many illustrious colleagues could muster. He has also shown himself able to take an advantage when coming from deeper positions to great effect.
Defenders are unsure whether he is likely to keep wide or cut in. they also do not know at which point he may opt to change course and very importantly - regardless of the range or quality of his passing - pick out the right ball. His crosses have been accurate, searching and sharp.
From a very practical point of view he has a quality Rafa likes - an ability to play elsewhere across the backline and if pressed midfield.
Liverpool’s plans revolve around adding additional threat down the wings so in addition to defending both left and right sided defenders will be expected to bomb on and this is something Johnson has excelled at. His contribution in that attacking third has been little short of outstanding
He caused Tottenham no end of worries and won a penalty which could have potentially saved the game despite a generally poor performance and terrorised Stoke grabbing a deserved goal for his troubles as well as rave reviews.
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