Glen John’s strength of character wins praise from Liverpool FC manager Kenny Dalglish

Dec 21 2011 by Philip Kirkbride, Liverpool Echo

Glen John’s strength of character wins praise from Liverpool FC manager Kenny Dalglish

THE perseverance of Glen Johnson has won high praise from Kenny Dalglish – as the Liverpool manager admits it has been difficult to leave Jamie Carragher on the sidelines.

England full-back Johnson has been forced to endure a string of injuries during the summer and early part of the season but has returned a stronger presence in the Reds’ backline.

Johnson, who is expected to start against Wigan Athletic tonight, missed the beginning of the Premier League campaign as well as three of England’s Euro 2012 qualifiers after suffering a recurrence of his hamstring problem, sustained at the end of the previous season.

The 27-year-old admits there were some sombre moments when he was forced to watch his club and country kick on without him but Dalglish has paid tribute to his desire to get back in the fold at Anfield.

Johnson has now made nine appearances for the Reds this season and has re-established himself as the first choice right back, though Dalglish warns Martin Kelly is ready and waiting to step in during the festive period.

“Glen had a bad end to the season when he got injured,” said Dalglish. “Then he went away with England and came back and was injured at the start of this season.

“It is great how he has picked himself up and got himself in the team, but Kells is just sitting there waiting for a game so the competition is good for us and good for the players.”

Johnson has not started a game alongside Carragher since the 1-1 draw at home to Norwich City on October 22.

Carragher has found his opportunities in the league limited since a calf injury at Stoke City in the Carling Cup meant he lost his place at the heart of the Reds’ defence.

Dalglish, who has selected Martin Skrtel and Daniel Agger in recent weeks, understands the frustrations of Carragher but praised the manner in which he is dealing with not being picked.

“We have the utmost respect for Jamie and it has been difficult to leave him out because of what he has done for the football club,” said Dalglish.