Barry Johnston

Barry Johnston (born 28 October 1979) is a retired Northern Irish footballer and manager.

Playing career After serving apprenticeships at Celtic Boys under Jim Heaney, in 1999 Johnston joined Cliftonville's U18. After returning from the United States, he came back playing football at Coleraine. He lost another Irish Cup final in May 2009 against Crusaders.

In 2009, he signed a loan for Shamrock Rovers after impressing in friendly appearances against Newcastle and Hibernians, making his competitive debut as a substitute in a win over Derry City at Tallaght Stadium. Johnston returned to Northern Ireland to sign for Glenavon in December 2009.

He then signed for Cliftonville for the third time in September 2010. Johnston scored Cliftonville's equaliser against The New Saints in the 2011–12 UEFA Europa League.

In July 2015, Johnston moved to newly promoted Carrick Rangers. Johnston moved due to a knee injury which prevented him from playing as much on artificial turf.

Coaching career Johnston retired in 2016 and joined the Cliftonville staff in March 2018.

In June 2022 Johnston was appointed manager of NIFL Premier Intermediate League side Lisburn Distillery

On 10 March 2025, Johnston departed the club.

Honours Coleraine Irish Cup: 2002–03

Cliftonville NIFL Premiership: 2012–13, 2013–14 Northern Ireland Football League Cup: 2012–13, 2013–14, 2014–15 County Antrim Shield: 2006–07, 2008–09, 2011–12, 2014–15 NIFL Charity Shield: 2014