Let's be honest ... Strachan tends to talk in riddles, depending what mood the media catch him in.
At the weekend he washed his hands of Johnson's future, saying: "If he goes - goes, there's not much I can do about it".
Today he insists the player should stay.
Gordon Strachan: "Adam Johnson's record this season is phenomenal.
"His record and the club's results run hand in hand. He's a terrific player.
"I am hoping that over time we gradually get to know each other.
"I don't think you can have a big conversation like that. I want to get to know him.
"All I can say is that since I've been here he's handled himself brilliantly."