Northern Ireland youngster Carl Johnston admits he was surprised by Peterborough United’s approach for his services but feels he is in the right place to progress his career after joining the Posh for a ‘sizeable six-figure fee’ from Fleetwood Town.
The right-back has captained Northern Ireland’s Under-21s in recent times and featured in Michael O’Neill’s senior panel for the first time when he was an unused substitute in the 2-0 victory over Luxembourg in the Nations League last September.
Ballysillan man Johnston, a Linfield Academy graduate who can also play in midfield, joined Fleetwood from the Blues in 2018 and went on to make over 100 appearances for the Cod Army.
Now, the 21-year-old has moved up a division and joined EFL League One side Peterborough, who are 19th place in the English third-tier, on a long-term deal – and he is keen to push on and prove his worth.
“I was actually doing some cleaning at home and then suddenly I got a call and here I am!” Johnston revealed.
“It is a great opportunity for me, it is progression in terms of my career because I am stepping back up a level at a really good club and I know a few of the players which will help me settle in quickly.
“First and foremost, I love to defend. I will give my all for the club and obviously I will work on the other aspects of my game.
“I feel like I have leadership qualities, hopefully I can utilise them here and help the group.”
Johnston has already made his debut for Posh, playing the full 90 minutes in a 1-0 defeat to promotion-chasing Wrexham on Saturday.
Peterborough are five points clear of the relegation zone and manager Darren Ferguson sees Johnston as a big capture as they bid to avoid the drop.
“It is a really good signing for us, he is a defender who can play in a number of different positions and is a player I have been aware of for some time now,” he said.
“He marked Ephron Mason-Clark when we played Fleetwood and didn’t give him a kick. He is a really good guy as well, I am delighted to get the deal over the line.”