Plymouth v Walsall preview: Connor Johnson aims to seize big chance
Walsall may have signed a new centre-half, but Connor Johnson is determined to keep hold of his starting spot after waiting patiently for an opportunity.
Dan Scarr has joined the Saddlers on a two-and-a-half year deal from Birmingham.
Wolves loanee Johnson, though, was solid in Saturday’s 3-0 victory at Gillingham – and has his sights set on keeping another clean sheet at Plymouth Argyle tonight.
“I’d love to get a run of games if I can – that’s my main aim,” said 20-year-old Johnson, who has been given a go in defence
after Jack Fitzwater’s return to Albion and Russell Martin’s departure.
“The more games I play, I think the better I’ll be.
“I want to get more experience and it’d be good to stay in the team now.”
Walsall look likely to be in for a very tough test at Home Park.
As well as the lengthy journey, the Saddlers are having to contend with the fact Argyle, who remain in the relegation places, have won three on the spin.
Another win for Walsall would give their confidence a big boost, and Johnson thinks they are heading in the right direction.
“We went through a bit of a sticky patch. That’s in the past now,” he said.
“I don’t think we’re doing a lot wrong. A turn of luck would be good as a few things have gone against us.
“We’re working hard and that’s all you can do, and we’ve got quality in the team.”
With Scarr’s arrival, Johnson knows he has to perform at a high level to keep hold of his place in the back four.
His goal is to seize the opportunity and have a strong run through to the end of the season, to boost his Wolves prospects.
“I had the recall (option) in January, but I think I’m staying here for the rest of the season now,” said Johnson.
“Hopefully, I can now stay in the team. It’s been a good experience, seeing a professional men’s environment and playing against older players, more experienced, stronger strikers.”
