George has dig at Johnson
Warriors chief executive Cameron George has had a nonetoo-subtle farewell dig at Shaun Johnson over his lack of consistency.
George said he expected any replacement for Johnson – whom the club granted a release on Wednesday – to play to their ‘‘maximum’’.
When asked by Australia’s News Ltd whether he was referring to Johnson failing to consistently deliver on his price tag, George said: ‘‘Look, I have no doubt the coaching staff had been working with Shaun around his performance, particularly consistency.
‘‘I think without a shadow of a doubt that has been an issue that is apparent and that has been addressed by the coaching staff from time to time.
‘‘In my personal view, that has been certainly an issue that has presented itself for a while now.
‘‘We need consistent performances and therefore we need consistent individuals, and not everyone has been doing that.’’
The Johnson release has been major news on both sides of the Tasman, coming after the Warriors had made it clear that their star playmaker for the past eight seasons was no longer considered the man to lead them to a coveted premiership win.
As other NRL clubs assess whether they want Johnson, with the Cronulla Sharks the most likely suitor to sign him for next season, George said he expects senior players will have a role in deciding who fills the gap at half now that Johnson has gone.
Johnson’s team-mates were informed by coach Stephen Kearney, prompting a quip from George that it was fortunate they had a yoga session soon afterwards, ‘‘which will be nice for them to relax a little bit after getting that news’’.
However, he expected the players to bounce back quickly and even hinted the leadership group would play an active part in the recruitment drive.
Veteran half Blake Green could be the loudest voice as the Warriors pursue a player who can click with his structured style close to the ruck.
Seasoned professionals such as Green will also be important in telling younger players not to fret over Johnson’s explosive exit.
‘‘They’ll be disappointed because Shaun’s been a big part of their lives,’’ George said.
‘‘They’ve grown up with Shaun but it’s also another example of what this competition’s like.’’