Source: Northern_Echo
Strachan refuses to comment on Johnson speculation
MIDDLESBROUGH manager Gordon Strachan refused point blank to discuss the future of sought-after winger Adam Johnson following his side's 4-1 triumph at the Keepmoat Stadium.[LNB] Johnson turned in a sparkling display which saw him net twice, one a 25-yard thunderbolt, and create one for team-mate Jonathan Franks. Also on target for Boro was second half substitute Leroy Lita.[LNB] Teenage midfielder Jordon Mutch marked his arrival at Doncaster on loan from Birmingham with the game's second spectacular effort, beating goalkeeper Danny Coyne late on from 30 yards.[LNB] Of his winger, 22, who has attracted the interest of several Premier League clubs, Strachan said: "I admire him as a bloke and a man yes, as well as a footballer.[LNB] "His contract has still got six months to go. It's still the same situation, I'm here to talk about the game.[LNB] "It was a terrific goal, it was a fantastic strike, that is what he can do.[LNB] "He made the second goal and scored both his goals.[LNB] "We had some good performances out there.[LNB] "It's just scoring goals and if we get that organised we'll be fine."[LNB] When asked about the rumours north of the border linking Celtic's Stephen McManus with a move to the club, Strachan added: "I think it has been well documented that I'm a big fan of his and he's not getting a game at Celtic.[LNB] "I've asked him if he wants to come here and he's desperate to and it's now a case of trying to do a deal with Celtic."[LNB] The Boro boss also revealed he was glad luck had been on his side for once tonight.[LNB] "I think Doncaster are unfortunate that we have been unlucky in a few games recently and lady luck has been on our side tonight," he said.[LNB] "We had controlled the game at Sheffield Untied and should never have got beat there and we should have beat Swansea on Saturday.[LNB] "Doncaster are unlucky they've got a some of their good players out injured, but I know exactly how Sean (O'Driscoll) feels."[LNB] "They were well organised and worked hard off the ball," said O'Driscoll of Boro.[LNB] "They have some quality players and if you ally that with hard work you've got half a chance.[LNB] "They were two quality strikes from Adam Johnson who should be playing in the Premier division."[LNB]
