Max Johnston is set to be given the chance to nail down the right-back slot at Sturm Graz from the new year.
The Scotland under-21 cap has been told he will be the first choice once Jusuf Gazibegovic moves to Cologne in January. The Bundesliga side have already triggered the release clause to sign the Bosnian international. Johnston had been slugging it out with him for game time at Sturm Graz. The Scot, though, knows if he hits his level will get the opportunity and if he impresses will get the chance to make himself a first-pick.
Johnston is now in his second season with Sturm Graz and was part of last season’s successful squad that won a league and cup double. The former Motherwell player has also had a regular diet of Champions League football this season. He has played in four or five of Sturm Graz’s games in Europe’s premiere club competition this season.
Johnston is also expected to play against Lille with Gazibegovic suspended. He has already impressed new Sturm Graz sporting director Michael Parensen.
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