Bennett won’t let Johnston go to Cowboys

WAYNE Bennett has no intention of releasing Alex Johnston to move to North Queensland in the wake of Ben Barba’s sacking.

There has been speculation for months that Johnston is disillusioned at South Sydney following the decision to move Greg Inglis to fullback in 2019.

But News Corp Australia understands Bennett is privately filthy that Johnston’s name has been thrown up as Barba’s potential replacement.

It follows reports late last year that Johnston was not wanted by Bennett and could be on the move to Cronulla.

Bennett has maintained throughout that he wants Johnston at the club and there is every chance the 24-yearold will start the season wearing the No.1 jumper.

With Inglis struggling with a recurrence of a knee injury, the superstar skipper has been unable to run in recent weeks and he is no certainty to be ready for the season kick-off.

Souths also have young gun Corey Allan as a back-up fullback option, but Bennett is reluctant to rush the 20-yearold’s development.

Bennett also believes there is still a lot of development left in Johnston.

South Sydney football boss Shane Richardson said he was not aware of any interest from the Cowboys but said Bennett would ultimately make the call.

While it makes little sense for the Rabbitohs to release Johnston, especially with Inglis underdone, there is no doubt there is a concern the talk could potentially distract Johnston given his desire to play the custodian role.

Johnston has made no secret of the fact he wants to be paid “fullback money” and a move to Townsville would result in an immediate pay hike.