Johnson’s final cut

THE AFL future for injuryplagued Sydney defender Alex Johnson is unclear after the Swans made the difficult call to delist him.

Johnson had a torrid run with knee problems, undergoing five knee reconstructions before again rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament in August while playing only his second AFL match since 2012.

Facing another extended stint on the sideline, the Swans decided not to renew his contract for 2019.

They offered him a nonplaying role for next season but Johnson, who played 47 senior games including their 2012 premiership, said he was still keen to play on.

Swans coach John Longmire praised Johnson for the impact he had in red and white.

“Alex has been an incredible servant of our club and has shown unbelievable resilience and he’s a much-admired player among his teammates, coaches, staff and wider AFL community,” Longmire said.

“This was an incredibly difficult decision to make, but the reality is he faced another extended stint on the sideline.”

Johnson said he was grateful for the opportunities and support from Sydney over the years. “I would like to thank the club for the opportunities they have given me over the past eight years,” Johnson said.

“I will be forever grateful that they stuck by me.”