Johnson chases more NI success

Northern Ireland v Slovenia - World Cup qualifier
Venue: Windsor Park Date: Wednesday, 1 April Kick-off: 1945 BST Coverage: Live on Radio Ulster medium wave and BBC Sport Website, live text commentary online and score updates on BBC Radio 5 Live

Damien Johnson alongside the NI manager Nigel Worthington.

Damien Johnson is savouring the moment as Northern Ireland build up a head of steam during their World Cup campaign.

The team captain has helped the side secure successive victories over San Marino and Poland, and he wants more.

"I am delighted to be back and thrilled we won in that manner on Saturday. I was very proud," said Johnson.

"Hopefully we can take that performance into Wednesday against Slovenia. We need to take advantage of Windsor Park as the atmosphere is second to none."

The 30-year-old Birmingham midfielder won his 50th cap for his country in the 3-2 win over the Poles on Saturday, and he expects the same style of play from Wednesday's opponents.

"I think Slovenia will play in a similar vein to Poland. They have done well and taken points off teams, so they will be dangerous," said Johnson who has now fully recovered from back surgery that saw him sidelined for a long spell.

"Bit it's nice to have the points on the board. That's important. "We know it is a tough group. The Czech Republic and Poland are strong teams and Slovenia and Slovakia are no mugs.

I know the boys are up for this one, especially after the Poland win

Damien Johnson

"Qualification would be a great achievement, but we are a long way from that. We have got to go to Poland and the Czech Republic. We have got Slovenia, which is our next game, and that is where our focus is at."

Johnson says that every player has to be play to his best ability if they are to surprise everyone and qualify for the finals.

"We need everyone playing to a high level, and with Northern Ireland you have to get in opposing players' faces and outwork them.

"Manager Nigel Worthington mentioned that point last week in the build-up to the Poland game.

"The bottom line is that this is a game we need to win and I know the boys are up for this one, especially after the Poland win."