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Adam Baker writes

Posted Thursday, April 5th 2018 @AdamBakerBCFC

Johnson proud of Reid's national recognition

Thursday, April 5th 2018

Lee Johnson has heaped praise on Bobby Reid after the striker was named in the EFL Championship Team of the Year.

The City head coach spoke of his pride at the Bristolian’s inclusion in the Select XI, which was voted for by his managerial counterparts.

Reid is currently vying for the division’s golden boot, with 17 goals so far, just one behind the current leader, Derby County’s Matej Vydra.

Johnson told BCTV: “It’s the biggest compliment you can get, to be voted for by your peers and managers.

“It’s credit to him as an individual, for how hard he works and the extras that he does. When you’re talking to him he’s looking intently in your eyes, nodding and taking everything in; he’s like a sponge.

“On a personal level I’m very proud for him because I’ve had a long history with him as a player and I just want him to keep it going and progressing as a footballer to take us to where we want to be.”

PART OF REID'S CAREER PATH

Johnson was a player at Ashton Gate when Reid progressed through the club’s Academy ranks, and he later handed the youngster his first start in league football through a loan move to Oldham Athletic.

Reid was converted from a midfielder into a striker in the summer to good effect and his goalscoring exploits led to his inclusion in the EFL Championship XI.

Johnson added: “We took the option on Bobby’s contract (until the summer of 2019) and it’s difficult in any organisation if you’re doing well because there’s a noise if you’re doing well.

“That could agents, other clubs or the fact he’s waiting to see if we reach the Premier League to be offered a better contract.

“My focus is on the player; there are other people at the football club that deal with contracts. Clearly I make recommendations and plans for the squad, but it’s my job to ensure Bobby Reid continues to become a better player.”