The young England winger, who came off the bench against France at Wembley, admits his frustration can sometimes get the better of him as he battles for a regular place in Roberto Mancini’s side.
But despite an interview suggesting he might consider leaving, he is adamant that he sees his future with the Blues - especially after the way in which fans have taken him to their hearts since his move in January.
Adam admitted: “The first thing I thought, when you read something like that, is the fans will think I want to get away. That hurt, because I care more about what the fans think than what anybody else thinks.
“I think the fans understand that I just want to play. When I play I try to give 100 per cent every time, and I think that comes across in the way that I play. I’ve had a few texts, mostly light-hearted.
“I think the fans want me to be playing, but there’s a quality squad at this club and we all have to fight for our place. That’s how it is, and I have to accept that. But it’s great to have that rapport with our fans.
“I said something in a moment of frustration and things can get blown out of proportion. I am happy here. I love playing football more than anything, and I’d love to play in every game.
But it would be wrong to think I want to leave. I don’t. I’ve got good people around me - the lads here have been great - and the City fans have taken to me, which is the main thing for me
Johnson had to show plenty of patience at Middlesbrough, where he spent a long time playing second fiddle to his pal Stewart Downing before Aston Villa swooped for Downing in a move that allowed AJ to blossom.
He said: “I came up through the ranks at Middlesbrough, but from the day I stepped in the door here for my first game, everything just seemed to click with the fans.
“Every time I warm up on the touchline they’re singing my name. That’s the best thing for me about being a substitute. I hate being on the bench, but the reception I get when I warm up makes it a bit better!
“But football has its ups and downs, and as a young player you have to learn to deal with that. My future is here long-term, without a doubt. I’ve only been here eight months but my career has already changed for the better.
“It would be stupid to want to leave. In an ideal world, I’d play every game to help the club succeed. Hopefully we’ll start the ball rolling and win something this season. I just want to play my part and make everyone happy.”
