Clinton Morrison has told Premier League Productions that Brennan Johnson was class against Southampton last night. The Reds’ academy starlet set up Taiwo Awoniyi to score the game’s only goal in the opening 45 minutes.
This was a badly-needed victory for Forest. They had not won away from the City Ground in a Premier League fixture for 24 years and this was a welcome three points on the south coast.
For Johnson, this was a timely return to form. Since the World Cup, he’s been like a different player and he deserves some plaudits for his showing against Southampton last night.
The 21-year-old was Forest’s top goalscorer last season with 19 goals in all competitions. As a result, he had been expected to take the Premier League by storm this time around.
That’s not quite happened for him yet but it’s not been through a lack of trying. Against the Saints, he made a welcome return to his very best form and gave the opposition a torrid time.
Morrison was desperately impressed with him. After dispossessing Lyanco on the halfway line he progressed up the field and squared for Awoniyi to score; with Morrison citing it as a moment of magic.
He told Premier League Productions: “Obviously at the weekend against Chelsea when he and Awoniyi had an opportunity, it didn’t work. He probably said to him, ‘make sure you get it to me this time’.
“Johnson gets his head up and squares it. Awoniyi had a simple tap-in. It’s a brilliant decision from Brennan Johnson.”
Morrison thought Johnson was class and there is more to come
This was a vintage display for Johnson. The Reds star was bang in form and he didn’t give the Saints’ backline a moment of peace and quiet last night.
Johnson produced a heavy metal display and showcased what Forest fans know he is capable of. He was high-pressing, determined and ultimately assisted the winning goal.
There is more to come though. Johnson must not continue this level of performance as Forest face a run of games that could define whether or not they stay in the Premier League.
His performance last night was worthy of praise. This showing has got to give him confidence and hopefully, he can get back to his very best form.
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