Rabbitoh Johnston welcome, says Feldt

COWBOYS winger Kyle Feldt would welcome the arrival of Alex Johnston if the Cowboys can strike a deal for the out of favour Rabbitoh.

The rugby league rumour mill was put into overdrive at the weekend, with reports suggesting North Queensland was keeping a close eye on Johnston’s situation at Souths.

The Cowboys do have an open spot remaining in their 30-man NRL squad, originally understood to be set aside in case Te Maire Martin was cleared to return to the field.

Martin was forced into medical retirement last month due to a bleed on the brain, opening the door for the Cowboys to recruit elsewhere.

The Daily Telegraph in Sydney reported the club had its eyes on Johnston who is understood to be on the outer at the Rabbitohs following the arrival of Latrell Mitchell.

Johnston would add depth to the Cowboys backline and join the battle with Feldt, Murray Taulagi and Ben Hampton for a wing spot. But he also has the ability to play fullback and would provide cover for star recruit Valentine Holmes.

“I think it would be really good for us. You always need depth in your backline and it is something we haven’t had for a couple of years. Especially last year we lacked in the depth,” he said.

“If we can get Alex it would be great but if we can’t we just move on and deal with what we have got. We will soon find out and see how we go.”

Cowboys management could not be reached to confirm its interest in the Papua New Guinean and Kangaroos international and Feldt said it had not been discussed among the team.

“We always try to stick way away from it. We want to focus on our job, and our job only,” he said.

“That is up to Parrie (director of football Peter Parr) and Greeny (Paul Green), if they want to get him in and think he is the best fit for us. We will welcome him with open arms. Hopefully we can get him but if not we will keep going.”

Johnston has played games for the Rabbitohs.