Centre half released by the Trotters after play-off win
The 27-year-old came through the ranks at Premier League side Liverpool, spending over a decade at Anfield, but left the Reds to sign for Eredivisie side Feyenoord for a fee of around £500,000 in August 2019 as although he played in a pre-season friendly against Torino, he never featured for the first team at the Reds. Johnston played four times for the senior side during his two years at the Stadion Feijenoord, also having a loan move to Wigan Athletic in his spell there, as he featured 22 times for the Latics, netting his first senior goal against MK Dons.
A move to Bolton Wanderers followed in June 2021, as he ended up playing 190 games for the Trotters, scoring four goals, also starting the 1-1 draw at Kenilworth Road last term. He didn’t feature in Luton’s 3-2 success on the final match of the regular campaign, but did play every single minute of the play-offs, with Steven Schumacher’s side beating Stockport County 4-1 in the final at Wembley to reach the Championship, as he made 49 appearances for the Trotters last term, including some as captain.
George Johnston in action for Bolton Wanderers during their play-off semi-final clash with Bradford City - pic: Charlotte Tattersall/Getty Imagesplaceholder image
George Johnston in action for Bolton Wanderers during their play-off semi-final clash with Bradford City - pic: Charlotte Tattersall/Getty Images
With Bolton announcing their retained list last week, the centre half, who has played once for Scotland U20s and also 10 times for the U21s too, was one of four players released. Football League World is now reporting that Luton are considering bringing him to Kenilworth Road, although Town faces competition from Plymouth Argyle, Bradford City and Scottish Premier League outfit Hearts for his signature.
Writing on his Instagram page, Johnston said: “After 5 unforgettable years, the time has come for me to say goodbye to Bolton Wanderers. From the moment I arrived, this club has meant so much to me. To wear the shirt 191 times, help bring home the Papa Johns Trophy, and be part of a team that achieved promotion to the Championship are memories I’ll carry with me forever.
“There have been incredible highs, tough moments, and everything in between. I’m truly grateful to everyone connected with this football club — my teammates, managers, staff, and supporters. Bolton will always hold a special place in my heart, and I’m proud of everything we achieved together. Thank you for everything.”
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