Johnson hurt himself in training at the end of January, giving manager Roberto Mancini barely any time to find a replacement.
Although the 23-year-old did not always get on with his manager, Mancini retained a healthy respect for Johnson, and was always aware of the talent that could unlock defences.
"After Adam Johnson got injured we had a big problem because he is different to the other players," said Mancini.
"We don't have anyone else like that but he won't be back for another month."
Source: PA
Source: PA