February 4 2004

Andy Johnson

Andy Johnson says the outrageous lob which netted his 20th goal of the season is the best he has ever scored, and lifted the lid on his burger munching celebration, writes Joseph O'Shea.

The 22-year-old striker sealed a 3-1 win with a sublime 25-yard volley into the corner of Wimbledon’s net on Saturday, for his seventh goal in five games.

Johnson told the Guardian: "It was probably about the best I’ve ever scored. In fact it was - either that one or with my left foot against Walsall away last year."

After hugging a delirious supporter, AJ celebrated in familiar fashion, by munching an imaginary burger. Contrary to rumours, it is no reference to a diet imposed under Dowie’s new regime, and the Guardian can reveal it is a tribute to physio Paul Hunter.

Johnson said: "I have spent a lot of time in the treatment room with Paul and Steve Allen. Paul is the biggest eater you will ever see. His plate is always piled high and we make eating noises in the canteen.

"I did the eating celebration once as a joke and it carried on from there really because the goals kept coming."

A £500,000 make-weight in the Clinton Morrison transfer to Birmingham, AJ has long since replaced him as the fans’ favourite with 14 goals last season, and 20 already this term.

He said: "I’m pleased to have got so many already, but it’s credit to the team. I am keeping my feet on the ground because I still want to improve. I can look back at the end of the season when I have scored maybe eight or ten more, but right now it’s about working hard."

Last week Johnson led the players who flocked to congratulate captain Neil Shipperley on breaking his goal drought, and his tribute to the skipper is indicative of the new-found team spirit at the club.

He added: "If I hadn’t been playing alongside him I wouldn’t have scored half the goals, so I want to thank him. Shipps has been brilliant for us this season.

"I’m pleased to be playing regularly under a good manager who motivates all the boys. If you’re feeling good the goals will come and that’s pleasing. It’s a great club to be part of right now."

Live Croydon Guardian text commentary