Sam Johnstone West Brom
Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper Sam Johnstone has opened up about the difficulties he faces in disconnecting from football after matches. Despite an inconsistent 2024/25 season, which saw him lose the starting position to José Sá, Johnstone remains committed to improving his game.
Sam Johnstone said: “When I was younger, I probably struggled to a certain extent with setbacks, but, as you get older and the more games you play and the more experience you get, it’s just one of those things you can deal with. When you have a setback or make a mistake, it’s not something you’ve done on purpose, they just happen. If it’s during a game, I just try to wipe it and focus on the next thing, or if it’s something that keeps occurring, I’ll work on it in training. I’m just that type of person who, good or bad, I work hard and don’t get too high or too low. When things are good, things are easier, more fun, and when you have to get your head down and work, you have to do that without getting frustrated. You can’t get too high when the times are good because, in football, times change very quick and it can soon turn very low, so I just try to not go to the extremes of either. Once a game’s finished, I’ll go through my clips to see things I might not have seen during the game or to look at the things we could work on. I wish I could switch off straight after a game, but definitely after the game and then into the Sunday, I’m thinking about the game, good or bad.”
Johnstone’s reflections highlight the mental challenges faced by professional athletes, particularly in high-pressure roles like goalkeeping. His approach to handling setbacks and mistakes demonstrates a mature understanding of the game, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balanced perspective. By reviewing game footage, Johnstone seeks continuous improvement, a testament to his dedication and professionalism.
The goalkeeper’s insights also underscore the emotional rollercoaster inherent in football, where fortunes can change rapidly. His ability to remain level-headed, regardless of the outcome, is crucial in navigating the ups and downs of a football career. As Johnstone continues to refine his skills, his focus on not getting too carried away by successes or failures will likely serve him well in the future.
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