Johnson Predicts 'Hostile' Reception

The City head coach swapped Oakwell for Ashton Gate in January, despite the fact he just steered the Tykes to a Wembley final in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.

Johnson visited the national stadium as a guest of Barnsley as they lifted the trophy, but recalls receiving a frosty reception from those in red and white.

"I remember my face came on to the big screen at Wembley and there were boos from the 40,000 Barnsley fans...hopefully it was in jest," he told Bristol City Player HD.

"I was very honest right the way through. Wherever I would have been, if Bristol City had come calling then I would have made the move. Bristol City is my club.

"I am expecting a hostile reception but it's not about me, it's about the players performing to the best of their ability."

Johnson was replaced at the Barnsley helm by his former assistant Paul Heckingbottom, who ended up guiding the South Yorkshire club into the Sky Bet Championship.

"He's a great guy and a great coach," Johnson added.

"I enjoyed working with him and they've continued recruiting well. Obviously I know pretty much everyone on the pitch personally this weekend.

"They've got some dangerous players who have stepped up well to the challenge of the Championship."