Tottenham Hotspur forward Brennan Johnson delivered a stunning performance for Wales on Tuesday night, earning effusive praise from manager Craig Bellamy after a resounding 7-1 victory over North Macedonia.
Bellamy's 'Brilliant' Verdict
Following the match, Wales manager Craig Bellamy was quick to single out Johnson for acclaim. "He was brilliant tonight, wasn't he?" Bellamy stated. "Some of those moments. That's what we know Brennan can do." This glowing assessment comes at a perfect time for the attacker, who will now return to club duties with a renewed sense of confidence.
A Goal and an Assist in World Cup Qualifying Romp
The match itself was a one-sided affair, with Wales keeping their World Cup qualification hopes firmly alive. Johnson was central to the triumph, scoring a fantastic curled effort from distance and also providing an assist. This marked his first international goal since June.
The goalscoring burden was shared across the team:
- Harry Wilson netted a hat-trick.
- Daniel James, David Brooks, and Nathan Broadhead were also on the scoresheet.
From Manchester United Struggles to International Redemption
Johnson's commanding display for his country provides a welcome contrast to his recent club form. Prior to the international break, his performance in Tottenham's match against Manchester United was described as "lacklustre" and rated a 5/10 by one outlet, which criticised his defending for an opposition goal.
This international break has seemingly served as a perfect reset. Former Wales midfielder Joe Ledley observed that the forward had a "real spring in his step," while pundit Ashley Williams noted Johnson looked "a lot more positive than he has done recently." Williams also addressed the player's £50 million price tag, a fee that makes him the second most expensive Welsh player after Gareth Bale, stating, "He can't help the price-tag that's on his head. That's irrelevant."
Johnson himself acknowledged his driven nature, saying, "I think I always feel like I have a point to prove. I'm someone who can be quite tough on himself. I just always want to go out and perform my best."
All eyes will now be on whether he can translate this international form back to the Premier League, with a crucial North London derby against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium awaiting Tottenham on Sunday afternoon.
