The impressive Lee Johnson record that Sunderland will hope continues at the Stadium of Light

The former Oldham Athletic, Barnsley and Bristol City boss has been appointed as Head Coach at the Stadium of Light – ahead of a hectic festive fixture schedule.

With the Black Cats having lost some ground on the top two in recent weeks, it’s imperative that Johnson enjoys a good start to life on Wearside given promotion is still the aim.

And while things took a while to get going under Phil Parkinson, that may not be the case under the newly-appointed 39-year-old.

That’s because Johnson has been a notoriously fast-starter in all his managerial jobs to date. Here, we take a look at how his opening fixtures panned out at each of his previous clubs:

OLDHAM ATHLETIC

The Latics were staring relegation squarely in the face when Johnson was appointed, but the young manager steered the side to safety.

His first give games yielded three wins and two draws – including a hard-fought point at Brentford and eye-catching wins over Bradford City and Colchester United.

Oldham also kept three clean sheets during that period as Johnson tightened things up at the back.

First five games: WDDWW

BARNSLEY

Johnson enjoyed a similarly strong start at Barnsley, who themselves were at the wrong end of the table when he took charge.

His reign began with a win away at Gillingham and was followed-up by triumphs against Coventry, Walsall and former club Oldham.

The only blemish on his opening five fixtures was a draw at Leyton Orient – which can be mitigated somewhat given the Tykes saw a player sent-off.

But even with that stalemate, it was an impressive start to life at Oakwell.

First five games: WWWWD

BRISTOL CITY

In his biggest job yet, at Bristol City, Johnson also began brightly – despite facing some big budgets in the Champions.

Three consecutive wins against Charlton, Ispwich and MK Dons saw his time at Ashton Gate kick-off in positive style.

A 4-0 defeat to high-flying Brighton was a blip, before Bristol bounced back Nottingham Forest.

Another good start for Johnson then, and a record Sunderland fans wouldn’t mind him emulating on Wearside.

First five game: WWWLW

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