It’s been a difficult couple of weeks for everyone involved with Hibernian FC as the Club learned of the passing of their majority shareholder. The news shook the whole club and affected everyone that crossed the path of the great man.
Johnson, who was incredibly close to Ron, issued the following words to Hibs TV.
“I was devastated. We had a good working relationship and we felt like a team; Ron, myself, the family, Ian.
“Ron was the leader of the Football Club. He was brilliant for me. Who motivates, the motivator? It’s often the owner.
“In the dark days or bad times, you can have tough conversations and feel that support, which alludes through into the players as well.
“For me, it’s really difficult but my thoughts go out to the family and anybody who was close with him for a number of years.
“There’s no doubt we’re in mourning, it’s been a difficult couple of weeks for the Football Club. Obviously, some people knew Ron more than others, but everyone feels it.
“All we can do is support the family and use this to our benefit to continue the legacy that Ron wanted. We’re on the right track and he was proud of what we’re doing. We now need to put silverware in the cabinet or get into Europe to fulfil that.”
In difficult circumstances Johnson, and his coaching staff, have been working hard to prepare for this weekend’s game against Livingston, despite a lot going on behind-the-scenes.
“Ron would’ve wanted me, particularly more than anyone in the organisation, to focus on what is a really important three points,” our manager admitted.
“With that in mind, we’ve been here and we’re going to fight. It’s a really tough game and an opportunity for the fans to show a mark of respect to Ron. The best way for us to do that is to play our way, give everything, and whatever the result we can look ourselves in the mirror and build this identity in his memory.”
Livingston come into this game off the back of one win in five in all competitions, losing in their last three outings.
Johnson, however, is under no illusions how difficult this game will be.
“It’s an interesting game and a tough game. They’re a good team, especially at home, and play their own pitch well.
“I have a lot of respect for Davie Martindale and what he’s done there, but it’s a really important three points on the line for us.
“The boys are confident, have been playing and performing well. We have a game plan and it’s up to the boys to execute that to their best possible ability.”
The players will be buoyed by the 3,100 travelling Hibs fans, who will also pay their respects to the great man, Ronald J Gordon.
