Johnson: Only Trophies Will Satisfy NYCFC

Goalkeeper Sean Johnson has delivered an unambiguous message on the eve of New York City FC’s MLS season opener at Sporting Kansas City.

Going into his second year in the Big Apple, Johnson has emphasized that City will not be satisfied until they lift a trophy together.

READ:Major Keys to NYCFC at Sporting Kansas City

He believes that another year under his belt in his new surrounds will aid both him and his teammates as they look to make 2018 a year to remember for the Club’s players and fans.

Johnson said: “For me, we have a more experienced group together this year and we have a first job to get back into the Playoffs – that’s our first goal, among others. We have to use the experience we gained last year in a positive way and I think we’ll be in a way better position to do more.

“It being my second year here definitely helps – it means I can help others along and outline the expectations we share. It was a good first year but we’re not satisfied until we win something. That’s the mentality of this team. It’s valuable to help bring others along and get them into this mentality.”

Johnson is no veteran at 28-years old, especially in his position, but he’s the kind of professional who sets the example for the younger members of the locker room and is naturally one of the leaders on the field.

In an offseason which has seen ten new arrivals, Sean is one of those who has helped the new boys to settle in and acclimatize and it’s a role he takes seriously.

He explained: “My role, first of all, is to do whatever I can to help the team game-in, game-out. I have to use my experience to apply that and to help the young and new guys along.

“Once everyone feels comfortable and everyone is able to play freely, whether that’s finding places to live or places to have a bite, it’ll help people to adjust when the start of the season comes around - everyone wants to be in a comfortable place, so they can concentrate on the game.

“I’ve been fortunate to live in two of the biggest cities – moving from one big city to an even bigger one, the adjustment for me was different to other players who’ve moved from more suburban places or smaller cities.

“Things move quickly in New York but our fanbase is special, it’s tremendous – just having that, to go out and do a job in front of people who care every week is something that’s second to none.”

While ten players have into the squad, Jack Harrison was one big name departure in the offseason.

Johnson admits that the squad will miss the English winger but he’s excited to see what some of the new faces will bring to the fold, starting at Children’s Mercy Park on Sunday night.

Johnson added: “Jack is a great kid and an unbelievable talent. Obviously, we miss him here and wish him the best but it’s the nature of the business. He’s made a step in his career and we’ve built our roster with new pieces – I’m excited to see what they can do this year. Every year, teams make changes and it’s the job of the players still in the environment to adapt as quickly as possible to perform when the first game of the Regular Season comes around.”

PHOTOS:The New Guys – Introducing NYCFC’s New Faces

We’re hosting our second annual pub crawl on Sunday, so you can celebrate the start to the season with your NYCFC Fam.

Find out more here or book your spot here, joining new NYCFC Stadium Host Chelsea Cabarcas and former NYCFC defender Chris Wingert.