Staying up a relief, not a celebration - Johansson
- Published
Stoke City goalkeeper Viktor Johansson says avoiding relegation from the Championship this season was a "relief" and not something to be celebrated.
The Potters finished two points above the drop zone in 18th with 51 points - their worst overall tally and lowest league position since relegation to the second tier in 2018.
"It's been a disappointing season because our goal was completely different," Johansson told BBC Radio Stoke.
"It's not a celebration; it's more of a massive relief. We had different plans for this season and how it was going to go, but then it changed.
"But to be fair to the boys and the fans, we stuck with it and made sure we stayed up, and then next season we can go again. We can't wait to go again."
The Swedish international was named Stoke's player of the year in his debut season but praised the whole team for staying up despite playing under three different managers.
"It has been a tough season, but I think as a group, we've grown loads," Johansson said.
"We're a proper family in there. We support each other. It's one of the best changing rooms you can walk into.
"Even though it's been a bit rocky sometimes, we made sure to stick together."
Johansson also thanked the "incredible" fans and said their support shows that Stoke is a "great and massive" club.
On whether he will be at the club next season, the 26-year-old added: "I signed for Stoke, so this is where my head and heart are at the moment."