The Extraordinary Journey of Craig Johnston: Footballer, Inventor, and More
Craig Johnston stands out among footballers not merely for his feats on the pitch but for a life filled with diverse accomplishments beyond the sport. The Australian midfielder, who achieved notable success at Liverpool during the 1980s, has since ventured into various domains including engineering, music, and invention.
Early Life and Footballing Aspirations
Born in South Africa to Australian parents, Johnston’s childhood love for football took off early. His mother encouraged this passion, seeing it as a safer option than other popular sports like rugby. However, at the tender age of six, Johnston faced a potentially career-ending obstacle: a severe leg condition initially misdiagnosed as polio. Fortunately, a timely intervention by a U.S. specialist diagnosed him with osteomyelitis, allowing for successful treatment and saving his leg.
During his recovery, he developed an enduring passion for football while in the hospital, particularly inspired by the 1966 World Cup. Johnston declared to a nurse his dream to play at Wembley, a dream he eventually pursued diligently. By 14, he was proactively reaching out to football clubs, ultimately moving to England after securing a trial with Middlesbrough.
Breakthrough with Middlesbrough
Johnston’s arrival in England was far from easy. After a challenging trial that ended with brutal criticism from the legendary manager Jack Charlton, he adopted a rigorous training regimen, practicing tirelessly to prove his doubters wrong. He eventually caught the eye of a new manager, leading to his debut for Middlesbrough at just 17 years old.
Success at Liverpool
By 1981, his burgeoning talent drew attention from major clubs, including Liverpool, where he signed for a then-club record fee of £650,000. At Liverpool, Johnston thrived in a golden era for the club, contributing significantly to their dominance in domestic and European competitions. Over seven seasons, he scored 40 goals in 271 appearances, becoming known for his flamboyant style and dedication on the field.
Johnston’s career highlights included winning five league titles and the prestigious European Cup. His memorable contributions to the club also extended to music, co-writing the popular “Anfield Rap” and contributing to England’s official World Cup song in 1990.
Retirement and New Ventures
However, Johnston’s career abruptly ended in 1988 following a personal tragedy involving his sister. Following his departure from the sport, he embarked on a series of entrepreneurial ventures. His journey included inventing the groundbreaking Predator football boots, which transformed how players interacted with the ball.
Despite initial rejections from major manufacturers, Johnston’s persistent efforts led Adidas to recognize the potential of his invention. The Predator boots went on to become a fixture on the feet of football superstars, even though Johnston’s own financial gains from the product were limited.
Subsequent Innovations and Challenges
Continuing to innovate, Johnston developed further concepts, including another boot design known as “The Pig,” which showcased enhanced grip. While he experienced various successes, some projects faced significant challenges—most notably his skills assessment project for youth, which ultimately led to financial difficulties and bankruptcy.
Despite these setbacks, Johnston demonstrated resilience. Now residing in Australia and embracing a passion for photography, he maintains a creative mindset and is said to be working on another boot design, displaying his enduring commitment to innovation.
Reflections and Future Aspirations
At 64, Johnston reflects on his remarkable life journey that spans continents and professions. “I’m tough, I come from a tough school,” he states. “I’ll never, ever be a victim because there’s always a solution.” His upcoming projects continue to echo the creative spirit that defined his sporting career, as he aims to inspire the next generation.
Johnston’s story is a testament not only to the world of football but also to the power of tenacity, creativity, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.
