Roy Keane hailed Tottenham-linked Sam Johnstone and his ‘perfect’ throw, which led to him supplying an assist for England during their 5-0 win over Andorra, as he told ITV Sport (09/10/21 at 9:50 pm).
The West Brom shot-stopper used his bullet-like throw to feed the on-rushing Jack Grealish for his first goal for his country, as England cruised to another three points in their World Cup qualifier.
It was great sense of awareness from Johnstone because his side were 4-0 up, at the time, and his throw ended right in front of Grealish’s path and into the oppositions half.
Johnstone is currently plying his trade for West Brom in the Championship, and despite playing at a lower level, it just goes to show how well he is thought of that he is still being selected for his country.
And it seems as though the Englishman also has admirers in North London, with the Sunday Mirror suggesting that Spurs will put in a bid for the player in January.
Nonetheless, this is what Keane had to say as Johnstone provides a rare assist for his country yesterday.
“He has had a quiet night,” said Keane.”He hasn’t had much to do, so whatever he has had to do, you hope he does it properly.
“Good reaction from Jack (Grealish), when he sees the keeper getting it. Good execution. Good throw and Jack does the rest. Lovely goal and the keeper will be pleased.
“Jack’s reaction, he’s away and you are thinking can he (Johnstone) put it ahead of Jack? Perfect throw, but having said that, it’s their job now. Distribution with their feet.
“But it was nice to see Jack acknowledging it.”
Spurs currently have Hugo Lloris donning their number one goalkeeping gloves and he hasn’t done much wrong this season.
But he has had previous issues and there is the feeling that the 34-year-old will need to be replaced soon.
Could that be summer signing Pierluigi Gollini, who has arrived on loan, or will Spurs push the boat out for a long-term and proven number one?
If that’s the case then Johnstone ticks the boxes.
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