The 30-year-old, who is enjoying the form of her life in the top flight, started her career with the Club and is relishing the chance to help Nick Cushing’s side reach their first ever cup final.
Having gained first-hand experience of the team’s transformation over recent years, ‘Joey’ still has to pinch herself to believe their current status.
“I’m really excited for Sunday,” she smiled. “It’s a fantastic achievement for us to have reached a cup semi-final in our first season in the top division - especially as a new team.
I’ve been at this Club for a long time and I could never have imagined playing in a cup semi-final before.
“When I think back to where we were a few years ago - when our kit was brought to the games in carrier bags - it’s unbelievable to think where we are now.
“We’re at a completely different level and personally, I’m loving every minute.
“I feel very lucky but I have worked very hard and I really appreciate it.
“I want to continue improving and I’m hoping to be selected in the starting line-up for the game. It would be amazing to help the team to the final and to score a goal or two would be incredible!”
Bury-born Johnston also believes the advantage of receiving a home tie can only benefit the Manchester outfit and feels the chosen venue adds to the excitement.
“It’s great that we’re playing at Hyde,” she declared. “I think it will be a really special occasion. The fans will be a lot closer to the pitch than they are at the Manchester Regional Arena so that will help to give us an edge.”
The forward also encouraged those fans who are yet to purchase their tickets to do so as soon as possible, as the players are eager to repay the City faithful for their phenomenal backing this season.
“We feel so lucky to have the support we have,” she stated. “So far this season, we’ve had some great turnouts which is a huge achievement in the women’s game.
“When we’ve been to other grounds, there hasn’t been the fanbase that we’ve had so we feel so privileged.
“The semi-final is a great opportunity for fans who haven’t watched us yet to see how far we’ve come.”
Johnston is also looking forward to the chance to secure payback against a side who have defeated City twice already this season - once in the FA Women’s Cup and again in the league encounter.
“It’s the perfect chance for us to get revenge,” she asserted. “We cannot wait to walk onto that pitch on Sunday.”
Admission for the clash is priced at just £4 for adults, £3 for over-65s and 16-21 year-olds and £2 for under-16s. Tickets can be purchased online at tickets.mcfc.co.uk or at the Etihad Stadium Box Office.
Cityzens members can redeem Ticket Points upon purchase.
Kick-off is at 2pm on Sunday 7 September at Ewen Fields, Hyde. Bring your flags, scarves, inflatables and singing voices.
We look forward to seeing you cheer the Women on to the final.
