Mikey Johnston says Brendan Rodgers didn't want him to leave Celtic on loan during the January window.

The Republic of Ireland international joined West Brom until the end of the season on deadline day.

Johnston struggled for regular game time at Parkhead this season with competition in the form of Daizen Maeda, Luis Palma and Yang Hyun-jun.

The January arrival of Nicolas Kuhn put the 24-year-old even further down pecking order which led to his loan move.

And Johnston is enjoying life in the English Championship.

He said: "I think [Rodgers] probably would have kept me if it was up to him. But I think we had nine wingers at the end so I think it would have been harsh had they made me stay.

"He was great with me to be honest with you and I think he wants the best for me so obviously coming here was that.

"I would have loved to be starting every week at Celtic but this is another massive club I have come to so it does not feel like a step down.

"I am obviously playing in a good league as well and it is important for my career.

“I am here now and I just want to make an impact and cross that bridge when I come to it. I want to make an impact and help the team get to the play-offs.