SUP IT UP
EFL star makes incredible gesture to fans ahead of what is likely to be his final ever game for relegated side
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A ROTHERHAM star is producing an incredible gesture for his club’s long-suffering fans ahead of their final game in the Championship.
However, goalie Viktor Johansson insists it “isn't a goodbye, it's a thank you” despite “seven or eight big clubs” chasing his signature.
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The Swedish international, 25, arrived at the New York Stadium in 2020 from Leicester and he helped them to League One promotion and EFL Trophy success in 2022.
Johansson helped Rotherham survive in the second tier last term but despite some impressive displays this season he has failed to keep the Millers up in the Championship this time.
Now a number of teams are plotting a summer swoop for the ex-Aston Villa trainee due to his relegation release clause making him available for just a bargain £1million.
Tomorrow’s home clash with Cardiff City could be his final appearance for the club, and he is determined to show his appreciation to the team’s supporters.
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He has announced on social media that he will pay for the first 600 fans through the door at a local boozer to have a pint on him ahead of the match.
The Cutlers Arms has become a favourite of his father, Tobias, whenever he comes from Sweden to watch him play and it will open at 9am on Saturday.
And each pint will come accompanied with a special message and card from the in-demand stopper.
Rotherham boss Steve Evans joked: “I think if Viktor's putting money behind the bar, I'll be there myself!
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“Viktor's been a wonderful goalkeeper for the club. Everyone is aware of the huge interest in him.
“I'm getting phone calls from managers who want my opinion on what he's like behind the scenes. They don't ask what he's like between sticks. They see that for themselves.
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“Whether he's with us next season remains to be seen but, at the minute, I'm planning with him. He hasn't gone anywhere yet.
“Viktor is a top-class talent. I've sat in the stands and watched him and he's been wonderful.
“More importantly, he's a really good guy off the pitch. He's really professional.
“He's also really humble, which is different to how you sometimes find players in the Championship who have aspirations.”
Sheffield United, Stoke City and Leeds United have all been linked with an interest in Johansson.
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And Evans seems resigned to losing him.
He added: “He's been massive since I've come in but I've watched him on many occasions prior as well. He's top class on the pitch and he's top class off it too.
“But we live in the real world and there are seven or eight big clubs in the Championship all looking at him.
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“If he goes on that journey, we wish him every success. We love him here.
“I've been fortunate to have [Emiliano] Martinez in goal before, and Johansson in goal. I've had two top goalkeepers and it'll be hard to replace someone of that quality.”
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