Sam Johnstone"s Journey to Wolves No 1 and England International
- Sam Johnstone began his football career at Euxton Villa, where he was scouted by Manchester United.
- He faced numerous challenges, including loan spells and relegation, before becoming a Premier League regular and earning a spot in the England squad.
- After a stint at Crystal Palace, he joined Wolverhampton Wanderers to secure a starting position, highlighting his ambition to play regularly.
Sam Johnstone's journey in professional football began somewhat unexpectedly when a Manchester United scout noticed him during a warm-up at Euxton Villa. He joined Manchester United's youth system, but his path to becoming a Premier League regular was fraught with challenges, including multiple loan spells in the EFL and a near-miss in the Championship play-offs with Aston Villa. After leaving United, he signed with West Bromwich Albion for £6.5 million, where he showcased his skills despite the team's relegation. His performances caught the attention of England's national team coach, leading to his inclusion in the squad for Euro 2020. After a season back in the Championship, Johnstone moved to Crystal Palace on a free transfer. However, he found himself on the bench, which prompted him to seek more playing time. In a bid to secure a starting position, he signed with Wolverhampton Wanderers, a club that had been monitoring him since his time at Palace. At 31, Johnstone expressed his desire to play regularly, emphasizing the importance of settling in and performing well at his new club. His father, Glenn Johnstone, was also a professional goalkeeper, which influenced Sam's career choice. Despite the ups and downs, including injuries and team changes, Johnstone's determination and hard work have been pivotal in his rise to becoming a key player in the Premier League and an England international. Overall, Johnstone's story is one of resilience and ambition, showcasing his commitment to the sport and his desire to make a significant impact in his new role at Wolves.