Tuesday 11th July 2017
CHRIS JOHNSTON must be due a change of luck.
Relegated last season, ruled out of almost all of the previous campaign by injury. He’s due a break.
And where better to have it than at Dumbarton – hopefully with a regular starting jersey?
The winger became Sons’ third close season signing from Raith Rovers last week, signing a one-year deal.
After a frustrating last couple of years, he hopes to become a fixture in the Dumbarton team for another demanding Championship season.
Chris told www.dumbartonfootballclub.com: “When the manager phoned me it was all positive. He liked the look of me as a player and I’m happy to get the chance to play in the Championship again.
“I’d spoken to a few League One teams, who made me offers, and I’d heard from a few Championship clubs as well.
“But for me it’s about playing regularly, and when I spoke to the manager, he said that some players had done really well here, playing week in, week out. That’s a big thing for me and if I am doing well, hopefully I can keep a regular place.
“I played against Dumbarton last season and you could see how well they did. It was interesting to see Ian Durrant looking to get the ball down and play from the back, which suits me as a player.
“It’s been a good first couple of weeks involved at the club. I’ve played a couple of games but it’s still early doors and while you always want to play well and win, the most important thing is improving your fitness and avoiding injuries.”
Less than two years ago, everything was looking good for Chris as a Kilmarnock player until he picked up a cruciate ligament injury.
That led to his release at the end of the 2015/16 season, which in turn prompted his move to Raith Rovers.
But he doesn’t have to wait long to return to Rugby Park, as Sons go there in a Betfred Cup tie on Saturday, July 29.
Before then, there are three other sectional matches along with tonight’s (Tuesday) friendly against Partick Thistle and Saturday’s clash with Clydebank.
And although Chris is looking forward to the challenges set by two sides from different levels, he is relishing the real stuff starting against Ayr United in the first group match next week.
He added: “It will be weird going back to Kilmarnock and being on the other side, but it’s just another game and I’m looking forward to it. It’s just like any other – you just hope to play the best you can and get the result.
“It will be a good game against Partick tonight and a decent opportunity to test ourselves against a really good side.
“Then we have Clydebank on Saturday, which will be another good game before the competitive action starts.
“Everybody will be looking forward to the serious stuff starting. Ayr United have announced they are going full-time, so that will be another test for us.”
Andy Galloway