New manager excited by challenge
The 31-year-old's immediate goal is to help Latics retain their npower League One status.
Johnson said: "That is why I have got the job and hopefully fans will give me time and take to me when they know I give 100-per-cent at all times.
I acknowledge it is a baptism of fire, but who gets a job when you are top of the league and flying? "
"The good thing is that there are 10 league games left and still have a chance of staying up We have some very good players here."
He continued: "I have watched a number of recent games and there have been things I have not liked, but it us up to me to change them as well as phasing in my philosophies which is to play entertaining and attacking football at a high tempo.
Johnson hit the ground running taking today's training as Latics prepare for tomorrow's vital bottom-of-the-table clash against Hartlepool United.
"Can I get that ignition from their gut in a high-pressure situation? That is the challenge."
"There are some good players here because I have played against them and with them in my career.
Of his appointment, Johnson said: "I am delighted, excited and proud to be named manager of Oldham Athletic.
"I am also hungry to succeed and it is something I have been working hard at a young age to achieve.
"Over the last eight to ten years I have spent a lot of time and money travelling the world looking at various clubs, cultures and youth set ups.
"The beauty of my dad being a manager is that I have known from the age of 19 that I have wanted to do that. And for over 10 years it has been something I have been working hard to achieve.
"Three other members of my family are chief scouts at clubs and I feel I am in a great position when the time comes to add quality to the squad."
Johnson also asks for the backing of fans.
He explained: "I appreciate that everyone sees it a left-field appointment, but all I can to is to promise to give my total best and work all the hours under the sun and do my utmost to keep us in npower League One.
"Then medium/long term, I want to take the club to where it has not been before in terms of professionalism, organisation and methodology."