Johnston, who was drafted to the Sydney Swans, has had a setback in his AFL career due to a foot injury that saw him sidelined for most of the season.

He played two games at the start of the year, featuring in the best players, and hoped to play in round 20, but developed severe shin splints which kept him out of the game even longer.

Keeping up his fitness, he has been working out at the gym and at the same time built up his body strength and weight, gaining 13 kg.

Having some home time, Johnston will be in Pirie for eight weeks before returning to Sydney for pre-season which begins on November 2.

The young Swan has settled into the Sydney lifestyle and has fitted well into the playing group.

“I am the youngest by two years so I am the one who gets picked on,” he said with a laugh.

When Johnston was drafted he was tipped to fill the shoes of Barry Hall and since the star forward’s retirement he doubts he is good enough to play seniors just yet.

“Since Jesse White has taken Barry’s position, hopefully I can fill the spot of Michael O’Loughlin,” he said. His goal for 2010 is no doubt a premiership and Johnston said that the club needs to play consistent footy and develop the young boys coming through.

Johnston’s personal goals for next season are to keep injury free, play in the seniors and play consistent footy.

He tips Geelong to win the AFL flag.

“If they are at full strength, no-one will beat them,” he said.

And, of course, he has tipped Port A grade to win in their centenary year.

His mates may have to look twice to recognise Johnston as he has lost his trademark hairdo and was a bit dark about the outcome.

“I went into a hairdresser and asked for a trim and he explained what he wanted to

do but I couldn’t understand him.

“Then he cut it all off. I wasn’t impressed,” he said.