Johnston returned to Rangers in 1980 to play under former teammate John Greig. During a game at Ibrox that year, Aberdeen player John McMaster had to be given the kiss of life after Johnston stamped on his throat, often listed as one of the reasons for the development of the rivalry between the clubs. He won another Scottish Cup winner's medal in 1981, although he only played in the first match and not the victorious replay. Johnston made 404 appearances in all competitions for Rangers over his spells at the club, scoring 131 goals.