Johnson in good spirits after shooting incident

Head coach Philip Williams says Tivoli Gardens midfielder Jermaine Johnson is recovering well after being shot in central Kingston on Thursday.

Johnson and two other persons were shot by a group of men who drove up beside them moments sometime after 5 p.m.

Williams says that Johnson is alert and communicating with teammates and other well-wishers daily.

“He is talking to us,” Williams said. “He is very lively, very jovial, as he always is. He seems to be recovering, recuperating quickly, and also very well.”

While optimistic about a full recovery, Williams said that he expects that the timeline for Johnson’s release would be determined on a day-to-day basis, in keeping with how his recovery continues to progress.

Johnson, 40 years old, said on Instagram on Saturday that he is appreciative of the support and messages from fans. and vowed to return stronger.

“Sorry if I can’t reply to all the messages and well wishes at the moment,” he said. “With God’s help, I shall be strong again. Thanks much for the love from each and everyone.”

National defender Damion Lowe, and other national players, as well Jamaica Football Federation President Michael Ricketts, also sent messages of support to Johnson.

“It was indeed a big shock to hear of his ordeal,” Ricketts said. “We hope he will recover fully and be able to continue his long and illustrious career in the game.”

Johnson has made 74 appearances for the national team and has also played in England and the United States in a career lasting over two decades.

Williams said that Johnson has the support of the Tivoli Gardens community, where he started his professional career.

“He is one of the players that the community is very proud of,” Williams said. “He is one of the few footballers that managed to play overseas, and he has done so in a period of time when it was not so common.

“Definitely, the community, as a whole, is praying for him and wishes him a speedy recovery.”

daniel.wheeler@gleanerjm.com