JEMAL Johnson has revealed how a collection of Thierry Henry DVDs and videos inspires him to become a better footballer.
The 20-year-old copied the Frenchman's trademark goal celebration after netting his first goal for Preston North End, where he has been sent for a month by Rovers manager Mark Hughes.
And when asked what inspired the celebration - which involves wheeling away from the goals pointing at the crowd then at his shirt - the USA striker said: "I don't know where it came from, other than maybe copying Henry.
"He's a player I really admire and respect. I record all his Champions League games and watch to see what I can learn from him. I have a lot of DVDs with him on them, and I watch those too.
"He's the sort of player I would like to be, although he's obviously world class, and I respect him a lot."
Johnson, who has played twice this season for Rovers, is refusing to think about what will happen at the end of his month's spell at Deepdale.
North End boss Billy Davies ducked questions about whether he would ask Hughes to extend the loan - although he admitted being very impressed with the way Johnson took his 59th minute goal against Hull on Tuesday night.
Johnson said: "My aim is each day to come in each day and try hard and get better. I don't want to say what will happen, because I don't want to disrespect the other strikers here.
"I'm sure this club could be in the Premiership.
"I think the players are good enough and it is what everybody here wants.
"While I am here I hope to get more first team football, and I think that will build my confidence a lot. That is my main aim from coming here."
Johnson's debut at Deepdale on Saturday was marred by a 10th minute yellow card for diving, and overall the players described the team's performance as 'poor'.
But he was delighted with Tuesday's result. His goal was set North End, last season's play-off final losers, on their way to a first home win of the season.
Johnson, who lives just five minutes away from Deepdale, said: "I was really pleased with my performance but the midfield made a real difference, supplying me and helping me in the final third.
"I'm pleased to have scored. The reaction from the fans was great when I scored too.
"I know they are a passionate group of fans here and I'm hoping there will be more goals."
Davies said: "It was a great goal by JJ and I hope we'll see more while he is here. As for what happens at the end of the month, that's not decided.
"He's had a bit of a chance to settle into the side and he knows he has to put a shift in while he is here and his attitude has been excellent.
"Saturday's game was very short notice for him, but he showed on Tuesday how he has settled in and we were delighted when he got the goal. He had worked very hard."
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