Johnson addresses Everton playing time as Moyes faces selection decisions
Brennan Johnson says he is happy with his playing time at Everton, despite starting only five of the club’s opening 10 Premier League matches.
The Wales international has played 411 league minutes since joining from Crystal Palace in August as part of a deal that saw Dwight McNeil move in the opposite direction. Johnson, 25, believes he has settled quickly at Everton and understands that competition for places means he cannot expect to start every week.
Johnson happy with Everton opportunities
Speaking to BBC Sport Wales, Johnson said: “It took me by surprise how quickly I settled in here.”
He praised the welcome he had received from teammates, staff and supporters at Hill Dickinson Stadium. On his playing time, Johnson said: “You cannot guarantee playing anywhere as a professional, especially in the Premier League because it is the best league in the world with the best players.”
He added: “I’m happy with the amount of minutes I’ve played. Obviously I always want to strive for more, but I’m in a good place physically.”
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Moyes has competition for attacking places
Johnson has made 13 appearances in all competitions, scoring once and providing one assist. Both contributions came in Everton’s 4-0 Carabao Cup victory over Preston North End in August. He has yet to score or assist in the Premier League this season.
The winger was a substitute in Everton’s recent victories over Newcastle United and Coventry City, playing 10 and 17 minutes respectively. Tyrique George has been among Moyes’ attacking options during the club’s three-match winning run, while Jack Grealish returned to action in Thursday’s behind-closed-doors friendly against Derby County.
Johnson is currently with Wales and could win his 50th international cap against Norway on Saturday. Everton return to Premier League action away to Brentford on Monday 23 November, with Moyes facing decisions over his attacking line-up.
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Gary Gowers is a sports journalist and the editor of Read Everton, where he leads daily coverage of Everton news, transfers and analysis. He also writes about Manchester City for Read Man City and motorsport for Read Motorsport. A former accountant, he became a freelance writer in 2011 and has written for BBC Sport and Metro.
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