NewsLiverpool's Greatest - No.90: David Johnson
Years: 1976-1982
Appearances: 213
Goals: 78
Trophies: First Division (1976-77, 1978-79, 1979-80, 1981-82), European Cup (1977, 1978, 1981), UEFA Super Cup (1977), League Cup (1981, 1982)
David Johnson was the apple of Bill Shankly’s eye and a player Everton never considered allowing to cross Stanley Park in a thousand moons.
Shankly’s repeated efforts to sign the attacker, who grew up a Liverpool supporter, fell upon deaf ears at Goodison Park.
Indeed, it was Bob Paisley who benefited from Johnson’s talents, later acquiring him from Ipswich Town for a club-record fee in the summer of 1976.
After establishing his role in the side, the Scouser became a consistent performer and scorer during an era of unprecedented success for the Reds.
He enjoyed his best individual season in 1979-80 with 27 goals, of which 21 were in the First Division to help Paisley’s men lift the title.
Johnson was left frustrated at not being involved in the European Cup finals of 1977 and 1978, so made the most of every second of his opportunity in 1981.
He started and finished that showpiece against Real Madrid in Paris, which was decided by Alan Kennedy’s late goal.
“It meant so much to me after being on the bench in ’77 and on crutches in ’78,” Johnson reflected.
The emergence of Ian Rush saw Johnson make the decision to return to Everton in 1982, departing with 78 goals, 213 appearances and 10 major honours to his name.
It is no wonder Shankly wanted him so much.
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