BY ALAN TEMPLE – @CCP_Sport
DARNELL JOHNSON experienced arguably the greatest underdog triumph in the history of sport. He can call upon a man who led the line for England at a World Cup for advice and guidance. He has already lifted an international trophy with the Three Lions.
It should come as no surprise that this hulking
Johnson, 20, joined Mark McNulty and Gael Bigirimana as deadline day captures for Hibernian, arriving at the capital club on loan from Leicester to fill the void left by the departed Efe Ambrose and injured Ryan Porteous.
While the promising defender is yet to make his senior bow for the Foxes – he did
“In a couple of years I see myself playing for the England first team and running out to represent my country,” he says with an infectious smile.
If some scoff at Johnson’s ambition, they should really cast a glance at his parent club, who stunned the world by claiming the English Premier League title in 2016. He has learned that impossible is nothing.
The Leicester fairytale had a tragic end last October when inspirational owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha perished in a helicopter crash, nevertheless Johnson will always look back on that miracle with fondness and an example of the power of unwavering belief and dedication.
“That is a story that will never end,” he recalled. “The atmosphere among the players, the staff and town was truly incredible. Everyone was working hard every day and, even at training, it still didn’t seem possible but we just kept looking to the next game.
“Before you know it, we had a title chance. Words can’t describe how that felt, it was spectacular.
“It makes you believe anything is possible if you work hard and put the time in. If all the players rally around and are dedicated then you will achieve something. That is inspiring.
“It gives you an insight into the mentality needed, that you can never switch off. When you are that close to winning the league or achieving anything then you have to stay focused and ignore other things.
“If you have that mindset to block off outside factors and focus on your goal then you will achieve it.”
Further inspiration comes from Johnson’s family ties.
His godfather is former England, Liverpool and Leicester striker Emile Heskey, who remains just a phone-call away and even gave his seal of approval to the switch north of the border.
With 62 caps to his name and
“Emile is very inspiring, to be able to call on someone who has played for Liverpool, Birmingham, Leicester, Aston Villa and England,” Johnson continued. “I see the things he did and say ‘why can’t I do that?’
“He’s always just a phone call away. He told me this would be a good move and told me to go out there and show what I’m made of.
“He has all the first-hand experiences that I will face, whether that is going out on loan or whatever. And he also knows the mentality needed to be a footballer, in terms of your focus and determination to reach the top. He can help me with that mindset.
“He has played in the Premier League, at a World Cup and faced big stars – that’s my goal, to get
Johnson’s international aspirations are not quite so outlandish given he has already won a major international trophy with England’s under-19 side, lifting the Euro 2017 crown in Georgia alongside the likes of Ryan Sessegnon and Mason Mount.
“Playing for England is every
“For me, the Euros were another moment that words can’t describe. It was an amazing feeling to win the euros and, to any youngster trying to get into an England side, you just have to work hard and be patient and things will come.”
Given his unshakable self-assurance, it is no surprise that Johnson has declared himself ready and willing to go straight into the Hibs side against Aberdeen this afternoon, should interim head coach Eddie May see fit to select him.
He added: “I think I am ready to play but I would say that but I have to come in and train first and then take it from there.”
