The England under 21 ace has been out of the first team picture since a spectacular goal scoring display in the Carling Cup win over Scunthorpe in October 2009.
Urmston-born Johnson burst onto the first team scene in style back in 2006 at Wigan but a series of injures have restricted the midfielder to just 43 league and cup starts.
Still only 22-years-old hopes are high that Johnson can force his way back into the first team picture under Roberto Mancini after impressing the Italian and his staff with his approach to a second spell of lengthy rehab.
“I have been ready for a run out for a while,” admitted Johnson ahead of the Manchester Senior Cup tie. “The weather has meant a lot of postponements but I can’t wait to get going again.”
Tonight’s tie has been switched to Hyde because Rochdale’s home ground is in use. Kick-off is at 7pm.
Johnson will be joined in the side by Dedryck Boyata, Alex Nimely, and John Guidetti.
Admission is £3 for adults and £1 for under 16s. Fans are reminded that there are FIVE loyalty points on offer for attending this game.
