MIDFIELDER Damien Johnson began his career as a trainee with Portadown in his native Northern Ireland before moving across the Irish Sea to join Blackburn Rovers.

He made his bow for Ewood Park club in 1997 and racked up over 60 appearances in a five-year spell with Rovers that also included a month on loan with Nottingham Forest.

A move to Birmingham City in 2002 heralded the golden era of his career, as the battling midfielder shone in the rigorous world of Premier League football.

His performances in the Blue engine room led to him being named captain at St Andrew's in 2006, although a series of injury problems curtailed his progress in the latter years of his Birmingham career.

Paul Mariner swooped for Johnson in the 2010 January transfer window with the midfielder displaying a calm assurance alongside Carl Fletcher in Argyle's engine room.

Johnson has won an impressive 56 caps for Northern Ireland, many of them as captain. He announced his retirement from international football in July 2010. 

Sponsorship for Damien Johnson is still available. Please contact Andy Budge for details on 01752 302204 or e-mail andy.budge@pafc.co.uk