Brennan Johnson caused problems for Turkey all night with his pace, as the Tottenham Hotspur star led the line for Wales in their crucial Euro 2024 qualifier.
Unfortunately for Rob Page’s men, the play-offs beckon after they finished third in their group. The damage was done with their draw with Armenia at the weekend which handed Croatia the initiative.
Brennan Johnson came into the starting lineup for the clash with Turkey on Tuesday. Rob Page has previously spoken of how Johnson has the ability to terrify defenders.
Brennan Johnson causes problems in Wales draw
And the Tottenham player managed to do that on a few occasions against the group winners. Wales Online gave his performance a 7/10 rating, but noted that he was not easy to defend against.
“Should have been awarded a penalty in first half after getting barged in the back by Akaydin. Pace caused problems all night,” they wrote.
Tottenham starlet now has brilliant opportunity
It was not an easy night for Johnson. As Wales Online note, he should have had a penalty. And Whoscored shows that he had more attempts on goal than any other player on the pitch.
However, he was not as involved as he would have hoped to be. Some will disagree, but it does appear that the lone striker role does not play to his strengths.
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It does seem that Johnson needs to bulk up if he is going to play that position as he can struggle with the physical battle at times.
But Ange Postecoglou will be delighted that he seems to have come through the break unscathed. Johnson came off in the loss to Wolves. And Tottenham certainly do not need anymore injury concerns right now.
The £45 million forward has a brilliant opportunity at Spurs now. James Maddison is unlikely to play again before the turn of the year. And Richarlison has struggled to silence his critics.
So Johnson can perhaps expect a run of games in the side if he can impress. Postecoglou just needs to find the right role to get the best out of the Welsh youngster.