Johnson remains supportive amid penalty kick controversy in Southampton match

Brennan Johnson (24, Tottenham) expressed that he would not dwell on the hat trick he missed due to the penalty kick controversy.

Johnson explained the situation from the match against Southampton on the 6th during an official press conference held on the 10th (Korea time) ahead of the UEFA Europa League quarterfinal first leg against Eintracht Frankfurt (Germany) at 4 a.m. on the 11th.

In the match against Southampton, Johnson scored two goals and gained a penalty kick opportunity at the end of the match for a hat trick. Broadcast footage captured him mouthing the words "hat trick." However, it was decided that Mathys Tel would take the penalty kick. This was because Cristian Romero passed the ball to Tel, as Son Heung-min was unavailable.

Johnson has yet to record a hat trick since his Premier League debut. His last hat trick was while on loan at Lincoln City (third division) with Nottingham Forest in April 2021.

This scene caused controversy among fans after the match. Opinions were mixed between those who felt Johnson should have completed the hat trick and those who argued that the decision was right for Tel's first goal of the season.

In response, Johnson said, "Every attacker would want a penalty kick opportunity, but if a decision has been made, it’s not my style to fight or argue."

He continued, "When Tel stepped up to take the penalty kick, I cheered for his score. He is a great player, and I have never doubted his ability."

Manager Ange Postecoglou addressed the situation by stating, "We scored a goal and won. That alone is satisfying," adding that, "If a similar situation arises tomorrow, the most reliable kicker should take it."

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