Glen: Job done, now let's reach peak form
Glen Johnson reflected on his first Liverpool appearance for six weeks with satisfaction, insisting that the 2-1 win over West Bromwich Albion can be a catalyst for consistency after an unpredictable start to the season.
The full-back was handed a 26-minute run-out on his return to action against the Baggies, replacing Javier Manquillo and helping his side close out a crucial victory in the Barclays Premier League.
Jordan Henderson restored the Reds' advantage after Adam Lallana and Saido Berahino had exchanged goals at Anfield and within minutes, Brendan Rodgers was readying Johnson alongside Mario Balotelli for introduction.
It was the 30-year-old's first appearance for the club since he sustained a thigh injury in the 3-1 reverse against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on August 25 - and Johnson explained how it felt good to be back.
"It was not the best performance you will ever see against West Brom but we got the job done," he told the Liverpool Echo. "That's what it takes sometimes to set you off on a good run.
"It's been frustrating for me as no player wants to be injured. I feel good and it's about match fitness now. The body feels good so I just need to get some training sessions and I can take it from there.
"It's been frustrating to watch because you want to be out there with the lads, and you want to be out there even more when it is not going too well.
"The most important thing for me was getting fit and hoping the lads could pull us through while I was not able to help.
"It is difficult when you have bad periods but that's football. It was always going to be a difficult start with all the changes and all the expectation but in football you have these ups and downs."
Liverpool took the lead on the cusp of half-time on Saturday thanks to the sheer invention and lithe skill of summer signing Lallana, whose nimble feet flummoxed four defenders on the edge of the West Brom penalty area.
Henderson returned him the ball with a touch of equal brilliance and Lallana raked a composed finish left-footed beyond Ben Foster to score his first goal for the club.
"It was great for Adam to get up and running with a goal," said Johnson. "It showed what he is all about at the edge of the box. He has two great feet so you never know which way he is going to go."