Notts County Manager Ian McParland believes the signing, and homecoming, of defender Michael Johnson is a massive plus-point to take into the summer months.

34-year-old Johnson agreed a one-year deal with the Club earlier this week from Premiership outfit Derby County, much to the delight of everyone at Meadow Lane.

The popular defender made a massive impact on loan with the Club for the final two months of the season, becoming a cult icon amongst the Club's supporters.

Cries of 'we've got Jonno at the back' grew week-by-week as his popularity increased game-by-game.

Former Jamaica International Johnson made his career debut in the early 90's in the black and white of Notts County after progressing through the youth ranks, and he is determined to also see the latter stages of his career out with the Club so close to his heart.

And McParland feels the Magpies have done superbly well to get the left-sided defender back at Meadow Lane on a permanent basis.

He said: "Michael Johnson signing up is obviously a huge thing for us, and a massive bonus at that.

"We've done well to get him. We have a budget to stick to I am delighted Michael wanted to come here towards the end of his career and help Notts County.

"He is a good lad in the dressing room and he will do very well for us - that I have no doubt."

McParland believes while Johnson's influence wasn't solely down to the Magpies' impressive defensive record, particularly towards the back-end of the season, but his arrival played a big role.

It's his leadership qualities that also stand out, as well as his astute defending abilities, that really excite McParland.

He said: "We had clean sheets before Michael arrived and came into the team, but he is a very local player, and he can be a leader for us.

"He pulls people about, and we didn't have many people who could do that before he arrived."

Remember supporters have up until 31 May to take advantage of the early-purchase discount on Season Tickets for the 2008/09 season. Tickets are on sale for Magpies fans the Kop Stand for the first time, with Adult tickets working out at JUST £10.87 per game! Under 12's again go free in all stands - and Season Tickets are on sale now!!! Click here for more information.