Mikey Johnston insists he had to leave Celtic in the January transfer window. 

He joined West Brom on loan on deadline day earlier this month.

And while he's joined a Championship club, the Republic of Ireland international insists he's not made a step down with his latest career move.

He's certainly hit the ground running with the Baggies after scoring a quickfire goal straight from kick-off for Carlos Corberan's side against Cardiff last night.

Johnston struck after a cross from Tom Fellows in the opening seconds of the game. West Brom would go on to win 2-0.

There is every chance the 24-year-old could return to Parkhead in the summer with a year remaining on his deal. 

But the player himself admits it was essential to leave Celtic in the latest window to get back to playing.

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He said: "The Championship is a great place for someone's career. I wasn't getting the minutes I wanted at Celtic - I was playing but it was sporadic. Sometimes I'd play well and score and then wouldn't play the next game - it was frustrating.

"It was important for me to get out of Celtic to be honest and when West Brom came up, it was a great opportunity. We want to make the play-offs, those are the big occasions I want to play in.

"The pressure at Celtic's massive. I don't think people realise how big the pressure is. It's something I've been exposed to from a young age and it's definitely something I'm looking forward to - I need the pressure to perform.

"It's a massive challenge in a big, tough league - different to what I've experienced before - but I feel like I've got the tools to deal with it. It doesn't feel like a step-down. It's another massive club in a good league."