Sunday 26th July 2020
THE reunion tour will go no further north than Peterhead, no further south than Glasgow’s west end.
But Denny Johnstone is part of Dumbarton getting the band back together.
He’s never worn the Sons’ colours before, but he’s in familiar company from what he describes as the highest point of his career to date.
In the act of scoring 17 goals for Morton in all competitions including the Championship in season 2015/16, among those who he could count on for assists were Ross Forbes and Stefan McCluskey.
He’s got them for company at the C&G Systems Stadium – and if Joe McKee re-signs, that will be another Cappielow old boy joined the reunion across the Clyde.
And who were Morton managed by during that season? Jim Duffy, of course.
Denny hasn’t had it easy with injuries in more recent seasons. But while the recent lockdown has deprived Scotland of football for over four months, it could have done him a favour.
After becoming Sons’ first new signing of the close season, he’s looking forward to getting started.
Speaking to www.dumbartonfootballclub.com, Denny said: “I’m delighted to have got something sorted. I’ve had my struggles with injuries in the past, but after having such a long time off in recent months, I’ve been feeling pretty good.
“Speaking to manager Jim Duffy made my mind up that I wanted to get it sorted and sign with Dumbarton.
“After all the injury troubles I wanted as much rest as possible, and now we are looking at pre-season training in four weeks’ time.
“Over the next few weeks I’ll be working to get up to speed and be ready to go. I’m looking forward to the challenge.
“It was my best year in football, playing in that Morton team, no doubt. Knowing Stef and Ross from that time helped out in making a decision.
“I’m also aware that Joe had a brilliant season in terms of assists. If he was to return as well then that would be great.”
Copyright True Scott Photography 2020
Denny started last season with Falkirk and ended it with Stranraer in a loan spell which was cut short by the Covid-19 pandemic.
He became aware of the challenge faced by Dumbarton’s opponents, and now he’s a Sons player, he hopes they can offer even more of a test in the coming campaign.
He added: “Personally I want to try and get a run of games and get my fitness levels up. I hope to be match sharp as soon as possible but ultimately I just want to be enjoying it again.
“The last couple of years have been difficult, but if I can play and do well for the team then that will be great.
“Obviously I was in League One with Falkirk last season and I know how well Dumbarton did. They went through very positive spells during the season.
“We just need to try and get a consistent run of form together and get up the table as quickly as we can.”
Andy Galloway