Tim Flowers impressed by defender

Stafford Rangers manager Tim Flowers has wiped the slate clean with Jermaine Johnson after the defender impressed in training.

Johnson was starting a five-match ban when Flowers took over as boss four weeks ago, after red cards in successive games against Eastwood and Hinckley.

The 20-year-old is also still carrying the troublesome hamstring injury that kept him out for the first two months of the season, but is not eligible to play for another two games in any case.

Not the ideal platform to start life under a new manager but Flowers has impressed with the attitude of the former Chelsea and Derby County youngster, along with his willingness to keep as fit as his injury will allow.

There's plenty of hard work ahead for Johnson on the training field before he can return and a battle to get in the team to come with captain Craig McAughtrie, Mark Dudley and loan signing Sebastian Harris all currently ahead of him.

However, his future at Marston Road is not in doubt as Flowers is looking forward to bringing him back into the squad.

He said: "When I came to the club, all I knew is that Johnson had got himself sent off twice in a week and was suspended for five games, which is no good to me.

"But he's applied himself well since I have been here, he's a good lad who seems bright.

"He's been with the group, hasn't missed a training session in terms of being there and is doing almost everything now apart from the running at the end.

"I can't wait to see him busting a gut up and down the pitch, once his hamstring can stand up to it.

"I am looking forward to him taking a full part in training and having him available for selection."