INSPIRING BREN’S RISE TO THE TOP

Old Trafford and the Bernabeu. But it is a very different story regarding Bale.

Indeed, as a nipper Johnson’s idol was his fellow countryman – and he vividly recalls the inspirational sight of Bale (right) going at full throttle along the Tottenham flanks. Those memories made a lasting impression, much to the benefit of Spurs when it came to luring him to north London.

Playmaker Johnson, 22, said: “Growing up, Gareth was one of my favourite players. Watching him play for Tottenham did give me a drive to want to do it as well. “Seeing how well he did here was definitely a factor in me coming. Of course, it was a different time, different managers, but it’s just the club they are, they’re really developing and always forward-thinking.” “I didn’t speak to Gareth before I signed but afterwards we did and he wished me luck.” Ahead of tomorrow’s visit from Chelsea,

Johnson’s impact for Ange Postecoglou’s surprise Premier League pacesetters has been limited. Having signed on deadline day, he was injured in the draw at Arsenal in September.

However, a brilliant assist off the bench for Heung-min Son in the 2-1 win at Crystal Palace in Spurs’ most recent game – and subsequent praise from the Aussie coach – suggests he will start against the Blues.

Postecoglou has stated his belief that there is much more to come from his unbeaten high-fliers – especially in the attacking department. That’s another shot of motivation for a now fully-fit Johnson, who will aim to prove him right by adding a dynamic cutting edge to the N17 set-up. Johnson, with 22 Wales caps, added: “It was extremely frustrating picking up the injury. It’s been a bit staggered in terms of settling in. I’m loving the football we’ve been playing. There’s a lot more we can do. It’s still a new system for most of the players.”

Having seen Gareth play here was definitely a factor in my move