Forward-thinking at AFC Women as Johnstone signs up

Aberdeen FC Women have announced the signing of attacker Zoe Johnstone as they gear up for the start of the new season this weekend.

Former Hibs and Spartans player Johnstone is the promoted Dons’ fourth signing of the off-season.

The Forres native, 26, says she knew all about Aberdeen from the Reds’ Scottish Cup win over Spartans – then in the league below her old team – last term, saying: “I knew about them after they beat us!”

Johnstone, who has moved back to the north-east due to her partner’s work commitments, added: “The quality of players has been a surprise since I got here, especially with the younger players.

“The attitude of the younger players, too, you would maybe expect the really young ones to have a bit less drive but they are just as ambitious as anyone else.

“The older girls are really good as well, there’s a good mix in the squad.

“The work that goes on behind the scenes has been nice as well.

“We have meetings every week about the club’s values and the fact everyone knows them and works towards them is good to see.”

Emma Hunter’s team return to Scottish Women’s Premier League 2 this season after winning last term’s SWFL Division One – North title.

They start the new campaign with a Premier League Cup group game against Hearts at Cormack Park on Sunday (4pm kick-off ) after last weekend’s game against Stirling University was hit by the weather.

On capturing Johnstone’s signature, Hunter said: “She is a great role model to have around for some of the younger players and has a lot of experience in playing in the top leagues.

“Again we add more depth to our squad, which will be vital in this long season in a very competitive division.

“She will play a very important role in our squad and we can’t wait to see her continue to develop with Aberdeen.”