Johnson a winner on two fronts

Glen Johnson said he was nearly back to full fitness after grabbing an 87th-minute winner for Liverpool at Chelsea on Sunday.

With the build-up to the game focusing on ex-Liverpool players who now ply their trade at Chelsea, in Fernando Torres and Raul Meireles, it was the former Blues man who grabbed a dramatic winner.

Liverpool took the lead in the first half through Maxi Rodriguez, before substitute Daniel Sturridge equalised after the break, but Johnson’s late goal helped the Reds move level on points in the table with their opponents.

The England international, who returned to action after a lengthy absence through injury in October, said his fitness levels were improving every game.

“I was the last name in people’s minds but I like to get forward and I’m very grateful for the goal today,” Johnson told Sky Sports.

“Obviously I’ve had a few difficult months but I’ve been feeling better game by game and I finally feel I’m getting back to full fitness.”

“We knew we dominated the first half but we knew they would get a kick up the backside at half-time and we expected a reaction, and once they get into that gear they are difficult to stop.”

“The lads showed great character to bounce back and get the late goal.”

“It’s two big clubs chasing each other and we know we know we are in a good position. We could have been better with results but we are happy with the result and we will take it.”

Charlie Adam was also a stand-out performer for Liverpool, playing a vital part in both of his side’s goals.

“It was difficult because Chelsea are a good team,” Adam said.

“We knew it was going to be difficult but we’ve got good players ourselves and I thought we played terrific and it’s a good way to bounce back after a difficult few weeks because the result against Swansea was hard to take.”

“We were told to press and you always think you’ve got a chance and I was fortunate enough to get (the ball). Maxi did well to finish it and we did well to bounce back after conceding the goal (early in the second half).”

Both sides wore black armbands during the game, in respect of the passing of Liverpool goalkeeper Brad Jones’ son.

He added: “I’d like to dedicate (the win) to Brad Jones who has had a difficult week losing his son, so this is for you big man. We are thinking of you.”