Source: Team_Talk
Mick thrilled by Johnson arrival
Wolves boss Mick McCarthy is delighted to have finally signed Birmingham central defender Roger Johnson at the second attempt.[LNB] Johnson has put pen to paper on a four-year deal for an undisclosed fee believed to be around £6million.[LNB]McCarthy tried to sign Johnson from Cardiff during the summer of 2009, but he opted to switch to St. Andrew's in a £5million deal.[LNB]He said: "I saw something in Roger a couple of years ago and thank you for your patience is what he said! Two years is a bit too long to wait really.[LNB]"But we didn't get him the last time. He was my first choice then and we couldn't get him.[LNB]"He was the first choice this time and it has worked out for us."[LNB]McCarthy is impressed with how Johnson switched effectively from the Championship to the Premier League with the Carling Cup holders.[LNB]He said: "We've had a lot of players step up from the Championship as well and you just don't know when they come up.[LNB]"I always thought he would be a success in the Premier League. He was better than anyone thought.[LNB]"Fair play to Alex McLeish, who took him to Birmingham and he has had two great years. I'm delighted we finally signed him."[LNB]Johnson admits the lure of staying in the Premier League led to him leaving St Andrew's.[LNB]He said: "I made some great friends there. It was a difficult decision but I want to be in the Premier League, that's the end of it.[LNB]"I'm sure a few people will be disappointed I've not stuck it out, but I'm 28 and I want to be in the Premier League for as long as I can.[LNB]"Nothing against Birmingham, I had some great times there, the fans were great for me. But for me this feels right."[LNB]Johnson added: "Some fans will understand why I've moved, that is an opportunity to progress again, while some will be really disappointed I've jumped ship.[LNB]"But I reiterate again, I want to be in the Premier League for as long as I can.[LNB]"It's been a long road to get here and I don't want it to end."
