Britain-bound Johns has no time to dilly-dally at awards night - September 2, 2005
SIN BIN -  Andrew Johns, the odds-on favourite for this year's Dally M, won't be in attendance when the award winner is announced on Tuesday night but Fox Sports is trying to organise a live cross to him in England. Johns, who will make his Warrington debut next week, is scheduled to fly out on Monday and will also miss the Knights' Mad Monday celebrations. It would be the first time the player of the year was absent from the presentation, although officials had to delay announcing Ewan McGrady as the 1991 Rothmans Medal winner for more than an hour until police had located the shy Bulldogs five-eighth after he failed to turn up.

Hot tip Joey a video superstar - September 5, 2005
NEWCASTLE hooker and last year's medal winner Danny Buderus believes teammate Andrew Johns can reaffirm his status as one of the greats of the game with a record fourth Dally M award victory tomorrow night. Johns, who flies out for England today, has made a late-season surge prompting most observers to tip him for the 2005 award. He will be part of the awards at Sydney's Town Hall tomorrow night regardless, with Fox Sports having set up a live cross from the UK for the ceremony. "You don't get spoken about being an Immortal if you can't win a few awards and he's definitely done that," Buderus said. Buderus said that while all the factors pointed to Johns, the Knights halfback was up against some stiff competition. I think there are a couple of worthy opponents that he's got in front of him like BK, Thurston and also Scott Prince," Buderus said. "I'm sure the countdown will be very, very close." 
In what has proven a truly remarkable season for the NRL, a further twist could be added tomorrow night if Johns becomes the first player to win the Dally M from a team that finished in last place. "It just goes to show you what kind of player he is," Buderus said. FOX Sports NRL executive producer Michael Neil said the decision to set up the live link with Johns was a result of his late-season form. "We've been working with the NRL and the Daily Telegraph to organise a live cross with Andrew Johns," Neil confirmed. It's been Joey's form in the back part of the season that's been so outstanding that we feel he should be included in the night." 
Arriving in Manchester tomorrow morning (UK time), Johns will head to Warrington's home ground where he's set to tune into the live-count. Neil added John's involvement in the ceremony would add even further tension to the night. "It should give the night another dimension, I'm sure it will add further tension and drama to what is already a fantastic night." 
Aside from Johns, Manly forward Ben Kennedy is considered the other leading contender. His form has been outstanding in the latter half of the season despite Manly's loss of form. He is considered the one player who can give the Sea Eagles some hope against Parramatta in their final next Sunday. Kennedy was leading the Dally M count when voting went behind closed doors after round 16. He was on 20 votes ahead of North Queensland's Johnathan Thurston (19) while Wests halfback Scott Prince was not far off the pace. Thurston has been a little quiet at the back end of the year but Prince has been in outstanding form and is sure to be right in the count.

Joey gets tackled by Reg at the Airport 
A corked shin had nothing on the pain inflicted on Andrew Johns as he prepared to fly out for his much-hyped English Super League stint with Warrington today.
Johns, 31, hosed down speculation that his lucrative short-term English deal had been endangered by the injury suffered in Newcastle's 36-28 NRL loss to St George Illawarra yesterday. But Johns showed plenty of discomfort when he saw what was waiting for him at Sydney international airport. His brother Matthew Johns's alter ego, league larrikin Reg Reagan, "presented" the star halfback with a wooden spoon after Newcastle finished dead-last on the NRL table for the first time in its 18-season history. "Here's a little something for your trip to Warrington. C'mon son, I'll see you out of the country," Reagan laughed. 
Johns copped it again when he checked in. "There might be some extra baggage," Reagan screamed, pointing to Johns's buttocks. But it all got serious when Johns was asked about his injury sustained early in the gutsy Knights' loss. There was speculation that Johns could miss the flight, prompting Warrington coach Paul Cullen to reassure Wolves fans today. "I have spoken to Andrew and there are no problems - it was nothing more than an impact injury and he played an outstanding game," Cullen said. And the Newcastle skipper backed himself to be fit for his English debut against Leeds on Sunday (AEST) in what is expected to be a sell-out at Halliwell Jones Stadium. "I got a bit of a cork in the shin, it's pretty sore," Johns said. "I stayed up all night icing it. I saw a doctor this morning and it should be fine by Saturday. I will have a medical straight away when I get there but it shouldn't be a worry. I'll ice it up on the plane all the way over and hopefully get a lot of sleep."
Johns's English deal ensures he will miss the Dally M awards ceremony at Sydney tomorrow night where he has reportedly been nominated for six gongs including best player. It is believes a satellite link has been organised for Johns at Warrington for the awards ceremony, prompting speculation that he had already been told he had won the prestigious Dally M for best player for the fourth time. But Johns today said: "I haven't been told nothing. It would be a nice bonus (to win)."
The man considered the world's best player will play up to six games if the Wolves make the Super League grand final - the same day Australia opens its Tri Nations campaign against New Zealand at Sydney. Asked about the Tri Nations, Johns said: "That's afterwards, we'll deal with this first. While "devastated" that his beloved Newcastle had missed the NRL finals, Johns couldn't hide his excitement over his English debut. "I'm more nervous than anything. There's obviously going to be big expectations," he said. "I'm looking forward to Saturday night, that first game - I can't wait for it. It's a big challenge. I spoke to a few of the guys, I get over Tuesday morning and start training that afternoon."
Johns said Cullen had been sending DVD copies of Wolves games for research. "I've been writing down (info) on each player, on how they like to get the ball and where they like to receive it," he said. Then Reagan fired up again. "Given the staple diet in England of fish and chips and Yorkshire pudding, can we expect you to come back through customs at about 180kg?," Reagan said. Johns: "I don't want to answer your questions".
Reagan: "Good on ya, son".
Wasting no time, Warrington already has Johns' No.31 Wolves jersey for sale on its website. After dabbling with 77 for his jersey number - because he is "twice as good as any other halfback" - the club settled for 31, Johns's age.

Joey 'best player of all' - Comment by Mike Gibson - September 7, 2005 
WHEN you reach my age there is a temptation to go wandering down memory lane. Some old guys who write columns make a habit of it. I have no problem resisting the urge. Personally, I find few characters more tiresome than those terminal pests who sidle up at the bar and want to tell you how it used to be way back when. By the same token, I'm a lucky bloke. I was there at Swinton in 1963, when the Kangaroos annihilated England 50-12 and regained the Ashes after all those years. Gasnier. Langlands. Raper. Irvine. As a budding sportswriter, what a thrill it was to be sitting in that chilly press box, watching these legends of the game as they performed magical deeds. Today, as I indulge myself by recalling those golden years, I want to tell you why Andrew Johns is the greatest rugby league player I have ever seen. For years, I'd given the tag to Johnny Raper. Chook, what a marvel. Tireless. Fearless. A master of cover defence. Hey, there he was making a bust down the middle of the SCG. Setting blokes up. Knocking them down. All this on a training regimen that included more nights out on the town than Kate Waterhouse. Then, along came Wally Lewis. Hosting those early State of Origin games on Channel 9, I was totally in awe of this fierce competitor who led Queensland in such dominating style. No one could mastermind a big game like The King. When it came to toughness, talent and tenacity, Wally was the full bundle. He was captain courageous, and as I watched him over the years humiliate the Blues at Lang Park, I decided Wally had become the greatest rugby league player I'd ever seen. But at last night's Dally M Awards, as the votes were counted, as we looked back on this fairytale season he has enjoyed, the exploits of Andrew Johns kept running through my mind. Like I said, I've been covering rugby league games since I was a kid, when you'd get sixpence for picking up beer glasses on the SCG Hill. But I have never seen a performance to match that of Johns in his State of Origin comeback this year. Returning after suffering a broken jaw, playing in the fastest and toughest rugby league contest of all, Joey came back and blew Queensland off the paddock. Refying the critics, he dazzled us with a display that will live forever in the memories of all those fortunate enough to have watched. Not content with inspiring the Blues to win the series, he returned to club football, and as his beloved Newcastle Knights were floundering, he picked them up and shook them by the scruff of the neck. What followed has been a succession of bravura performances from the most gifted rugby league player to ever pull on a boot. Johns is truly a wizard. He has taken rugby league to a level where his only challenge is to challenge himself. He plays the game in another galaxy. Thanks, Joey. What a season. You've been doing it for years. You're the greatest rugby league player I've ever seen. 

Watch and learn from Joey genius - September 8, 2005 
WITH 20 minutes left in Sunday's television game the father called his two sons into the lounge room. "Boys," he said, "come in and watch this." 
He sat them down and told them to watch Andrew Johns and the one rule was that they were not allowed to talk. Aged five and seven, they had to watch. The plan, and the hope, was that when they grow into men they will remember Andrew Johns, outmatched and on one leg, keeping his team in a game they had no right to be contesting. People have asked how Johns polled three votes in a game Newcastle lost. As the judge who gave him three, my simple answer is he was the best player on the field. With two minutes to go Newcastle, the last-placed team, was a chance of beating the competition favourites. They were in that position because of one man. Going into Sunday's game nobody had any idea how close the Dally M judging was. From here, the belief was Johns would be leading from Scott Prince, given Prince was placed high and about to go on an eight-match winning streak with voting behind closed doors. Johns got hurt early and played through, and as the weight of the Dragons talent bore down it was Johns that rallied. He led and he lifted the lesser talents around him. Again, a well-timed pass in the final two minutes and the last-placed team beat the competition favourites. Afterwards, without the rush to publish the votes in the first edition, there was time to consider the Dally M votes. Trent Barrett, Luke Bailey and Jason Ryles were all strong. It is not an uncommon dilemma for the Dragons. They are the premiership favourites and have done that on the back of a team that has players willing to pick up the slack when others are down. Some have asked how they could have only two players win Dally M positional awards. They and Parramatta, the other form team, are the only clubs that did win two. Seven clubs divided up the nine positions, and you could argue only Barrett could have displaced Braith Anasta among the winners. There was only a point between them in the end. I'm comfortable with that. Judging is subjective. After Sunday's game I asked the Knights coaching staff who got their player award. It was Steve Simpson. Channel 9 gave their man of the match award to Bailey; I thought Barrett was their best. The playmakers win most awards because they are the decision makers, and the best decision maker in this game was Andrew Johns. Johns' problem nowadays is that he is often a victim of his own greatness. His performances are nearly always measured against his previous efforts, and not the field. It took two young boys in front of their television screen to make you realise that is the bigger trap in judging. 

Hungry like the Wolves, Joey says he'll stay for grand final - September 9, 2005 
Andrew Johns has dispelled any doubts about his choosing to play for Warrington ahead of Australia if they make the Super League grand final, which is on the same weekend as the opening Tri-Nations Test. "I haven't really told them yet. [But] I won't be going home if I get to the grand final," he said at his first news conference since arriving in England on Tuesday. Johns said he took great pride in playing for the Kangaroos and had spoken with Australia coach Wayne Bennett about playing the remainder of the tournament. "I spoke to Wayne Bennett about it before I came and he was really positive about the opportunity," he said. "What would he rather me do, come over here and stay match-hardened or have five weeks to myself over there where who knows what I'd be up to?" Johns's debut this weekend against Super League champions Leeds is already a guaranteed 13,600 sell-out at Halliwell Jones Stadium, ensuring the club covers the cost of his reported £10,000 ($23,900) match payment. 

Joey named in Kangaroos squad
The Australian Rugby League has named Andrew Johns among a 15-man Kangaroos train-on squad for the upcoming Tri-Nations tournament. Johns left today for England and a stint with Super League side Warrington, a commitment which could rule him out of Kangaroos selection. If Warrington make the Super League grand final then Johns would be unavailable to play for Australia in the first Tri-Nations Test against New Zealand in Sydney on October 15. Penrith has five players named while the Roosters, the Knights and the Bulldogs have three players each and Warriors captain Steve Price has also been named. In other rugby league news, the Prime Minister's XIII to play Papua New Guinea in two weeks' time will be named tomorrow. Kangaroos train-on squad
Craig Fitzgibbon, Anthony Minichiello, Craig Wing, Joel Clinton, Craig Gower, Luke Lewis, Luke Rooney, Trent Waterhouse, Steve Price, Willie Mason, Mark O'Meley, Andrew Ryan, Danny Buderus, Andrew Johns, Steve Simpson.

Names first priority for Johns - September 10, 2005 
ON HIS first training run at Warrington, Andrew Johns felt like he was back at Newcastle. Which doesn't appear great news for his NEW English club considering the Knights finished the NRL season with their first-ever wooden spoon. But when he makes his debut for Warrington against Leeds tomorrow, the Wolves are on their way to the finals sitting in fourth place with two matches left. Johns' task in his controversial stint in the north of England is to help Warrington finish the home-and-away season off with two wins to earn a home semi-final, another couple of wins and a grand final berth. "That's why they've got me over here, to try to make an impact," Johns said. "Hopefully I can add something. It's my job now to live up to that expectation and hype." 
At a reported $24,000 a week, Warrington are hoping Johns has the same impact he had when he returned from injury for Newcastle and NSW this year, leading the previously winless Knights to eight wins from 11 games and NSW to the State of Origin title. Johns said he felt immediately comfortable when he trained with his new teammates on Wednesday after arriving from Australia the previous day and had recovered from the corked shin he suffered last weekend. 
"I think they play similar to how we play at Newcastle, it's just a matter of me learning the calls," he said. "They play similar patterns to Newcastle, attack the same areas of the field, it hasn't been too hard fitting into the style of play. It's just me getting to know them and getting all the blokes' names." 
While he believes he will slot into Warrington's game smoothly, he is also expecting the match to be little different to the NRL. "I think it's very similar to the NRL," he said. "The standard over here is really high. If anything, it's probably a bit quicker, the 10 metres is a little bit more than 10 metres so the game is a little bit faster and it's more attack based so hopefully that suits my style." 
Leeds coach Tony Smith said the defending premiers would not target his fellow Australian, but he warned Johns he would not find it easy to settle in. "We're pretty aware he's a quality player, but they've got a lot of quality players," Smith said. "I don't think it's a matter of just shutting Andrew Johns down. He's going to find it hard to come into a side with two games to go and to know the guys around him. I know we're talking about a quality player, but it's going to be a big challenge. 
"It's not just his teammates, but he has to know the opposition as well, know what our guys are like and what they can do." 
Smith said Britain's Rugby Football League should look into the loophole which has allowed Johns to sign for the last two matches of the season and potentially four finals. 

RugbyL: 'It's fantastic to see my Welsh roots' - Sep 11 2005
WITH a rugby ball, Andrew Johns is a genius; without one, he's refreshingly normal. Johns couldn't suffer delusions of grandeur, you can't when you're the best in the world. But arrogance almost inevitably follows inauguration into the sporting monarchy. Even sportsmen who have achieved practically nothing have a habit of mislaying their manners and morals. So Johns might be forgiven for being a self-obsessed big-head. But, while he isn't just any other sportsman, Johns hasn't forgotten his working-class roots; sheer hard work, focus and mental toughness has made him a truly inspirational sporting figure. But off the field the Aussie is a true individual. Flashy haircuts and expensive designer clobber just aren't him. Give him surf shorts and trainers any day. Over-analysing rugby seems to bore him, he'd much rather talk surfing or rock 'n' roll than talk shop. As I tentatively perched next to such an iconic sportsman as he was unveiled as Warrington Wolves' latest transfer coup, Johns immediately shows the down-to-earth characteristic and humility that is so unique among celebrities. "Can I detect a Welsh accent there, mate?" he asked me. Johns is a proud Aussie but he takes equal pride in his Welsh heritage. His better half, too, is Welsh. "Yeah, Catherine is from Porthcawl," he revealed. "It's a great little place. I love it because I can really chill out. It's not a bad place for a surf, especially off Rest Bay."
This is where I almost stopped this conversation to review what Johns had just said. To recap, here is the best rugby league player in the world and I discussing the delights of, ahem, Porthcawl - Surreal isn't the word. But Johns takes pleasure in the simple things in life. And in Porthcawl he's just another guy. It's a world away from life in Oz. Such is his superstar status, popping out for a pint of milk would be an ordeal. He'd be mobbed in the streets. Put it this way, he's the 'Aussie David Beckham'.
Johns is the best player in Australia's National Rugby League, the world's most gruelling domestic rugby competition, and plays for New South Wales team Newcastle Knights. In old South Wales, his ancestral home, it's a different story. "Newcastle is a fanatical rugby league town and the adulation bit can get a bit much," said the 31-year-old. "It's so nice to come to Wales and get away from the hassle. Catherine and I just do everyday things, like walking around, grabbing a bite to eat, shopping or even swimming! The anonymity is a breath of fresh air."
He added: "Catherine and I have been going out for about three years now. She works for Sony music in Australia. Sony did a DVD on my life-story and Catherine did the publicity. "Catherine is a cracking girl with a sharp, Welsh sense of humour; she's so easy to get along with."
Johns didn't come to Wales just to get away from it all he was retracing family footsteps. "My great-grandfather, Cecil, is from the Rhondda (is that how you pronounce it?) Valleys and he was a miner," he said. "He left old South Wales for New South Wales in the hope of getting more work. My grandfather was also a miner, as was my father, and I would have been happy to go down the mines if I hadn't found rugby. "I was raised in the Hunter Valley, an area nicknamed 'the coalfields', in New South Wales in a town called Cessnock and it's very similar to the Welsh valleys. Mining communities go hand in hand with rugby, whether that's in Wales or Australia. "I'm very proud of my Welsh heritage and have never forgotten it. And it's ironic that I'm now going out with a Welsh girl."
Like the Rhondda Valleys, the once prosperous Hunter Valley is suffering high unemployment due to mine closures. Johns is one of 20 past and present Aussie rugby league internationals, including the legendary John Sattler, to have rolled off the distinguished Hunter Valley production line. Former Aussie cricket captain Steve Waugh is another local boy done good but Hunter Valley is perhaps more famous for its wine production. But in sporting terms, Johns is certainly a true vintage. The Aussie half-back has captained the Newcastle Knights since 2001, he has led New South Wales in the State of Origin and he has skippered his country in two World Cups. Johns won the award of Most Valuable Player at the 1995 World Cup, he's a three-time NRL Player of the Year and has won the Golden Boot award for best player in the world twice. Johns was tempted to swap league for union last year and admitted: "I was dead set going to sign as I had a great offer from the Aussie Rugby Union but there was a lot of kerfuffle so I stayed in league. It was about that time when the Welsh Rugby Union reminded me I qualified to play for Wales. "It was a very nice offer but I could never forget my Welsh qualification anyway because Catherine's always reminding me of that!
"I also heard rumours that Graham Henry wanted me to play rugby union and play for Wales about five years ago, but no one ever mentioned it to me. But rugby league is the love of my life."
Johns, though, has been in a Welsh rugby union dressing room. "I met all of the Welsh guys before their World Cup 2003 pool game with New Zealand in Sydney," he revealed. "Welsh skills coach Scott Johnson invited me to meet the guys. It was a half-an-hour sort of question-and-answer session. They'd watched my DVD on the bus on the way to the ground; we talked about the comparisons between league and union."
Wales were inspired; pushing the awesome All Blacks - who eventually finished third - all the way. The Welsh may have lost 53-37 but their brave and impressive performance was the turning point for an international team that had previously been in the doldrums. Wales have since developed into Grand Slam winners; so what did Johns say?  "Nah, it wasn't inspirational," he said. "You could tell they were passionate about their rugby, so I gave them my thoughts on how to prepare mentally. They obviously had ability but often it's mind over matter. The Welsh almost beat the All Blacks that day and they've gone right ahead to become a real force. I love the Welsh passion for sport and particularly rugby; it's great to see. That's where my Welsh heritage comes to the fore as I have some of that Welsh passion."
But for Jones' unquestionable greatness, he looked nothing like the iconic sportsman as Warrington unveiled him last week. The surf dude without attitude was dressed down in his favourite Quicksilver board shorts but had to wear an 'Andrew Johns Warrington Wolves' polo shirt. The latter was apparently for promotional purposes, hardly necessary as they are the must-have late-summer accessory in Warrington. Johns - or Joey as he's affectionately known - is at Warrington on a short-term contract as Newcastle failed to make the NRL play-offs due, in the main, to Johns' absence this season through injury. Johns is earning an estimated £10,000-a-game at Warrington. But as the millionaire readily admits: "I don't need the money. I'm doing it because I love rugby league and have always wanted to play in Britain. "If I didn't want to I could have spent all my time off surfing. It's good for Catherine as she can get back to see her parents as often as she likes. Porthcawl's only three hours drive away. I know you Brits think that's a hell of a distance but in Oz that's just a trip to the next town!
"Ironically, Catherine went to university in Warrington. It's a small world isn't it? She's got a lot of friends in the North West, particularly in Manchester, so I'm looking forward to meeting up with them. She hasn't shown me the best night-spots - yet!
"Cath also did the publicity for Harry Kewell's DVD 'Cool World' and we're good mates. He's a nice fella and because he's only over the river in Liverpool, I'll go to see him play sometime."
In order for Newcastle to release their knight in shining armour, Johns had to sign a contract extension until 2008. And then he'll hang up his boots and probably reach for the surfboard and head for Rest Bay. Failing that he may have to make do with the Gold Coast. Another hard decision.
But you can't begrudge a nice guy a nice life.

Johns steals another show in Wolves win - September 12, 2005
WOLVES 33 RHINOS 16
Andrew Johns rated his Warrington debut as one of the highlights of his career after being named man of the match in the Wolves' victory over world champions Leeds. The former Australia captain, who returned from injury to lead Newcastle to eight wins from their last 11 matches and guided NSW to the State of Origin title, transferred his talismanic effect to his cameo British career amid rapturous scenes at Halliwell Jones Stadium. The 31-year-old halfback, thought to be on £10,000 ($24,110) a match for his short-term stint, delighted a capacity crowd with a masterful display as the Wolves secured a precious win in their bid to land a home final when they scored a 33-16 victory. Twice winner of the Golden Boot as the best player in the game, Johns displayed his full bag of tricks and inspired his teammates to new heights. He single-handedly created a try for second-rower Logan Swann and had a hand in two of his side's four others, in addition to kicking five goals from six attempts and landing a 35-metre field goal. "Everything seemed to fall into place in the end," he said. "It was a lightning-fast game, everything I expected. It's been a dream of mine all along to come here and play, and this was right up there with some of the big games I've been lucky enough to play in.
"We scored 33 points in the end but it was our defence that won it. There was a steely edge to our defence and that's what wins big games. We stuck to the game plan and it worked to perfection. The big challenge now is consistency because that is what you're judged on. Anyone can do a one-off; the champion teams can do it four or five games in a row and that's the challenge we've got to face."
Johns made the difference as the Wolves, beaten in all three previous meetings with the Rhinos this year, rose to the occasion to inflict on Leeds a fourth successive defeat. "Yes, he is that good," Wolves coach Paul Cullen said. "What he has extracted from the other 16 players are gears and levels that I didn't think existed in one or two. They have raised their game because of the company that we are now keeping."
Trailing 18-6, the Rhinos scored tries either side of half-time through Matt Diskin and Marcus Bai to cut the deficit to just two points but had a third try disallowed when Bai was ruled offside, and finished a well-beaten side. "It was always going to be the Johnsy party," admitted Leeds coach Tony Smith.

England ride one to remember - By Andrew Johns - September 12, 2005
I've spoken to people who have played at club level in England, including my brother Matthew, to try and get a handle on what it is like. But until you have been there, it is impossible to prepare yourself for the atmosphere. I can tell you it is a fantastic buzz. There was a capacity 14,500 crowd for my first game for Warrington against Leeds but it sounded like 100,000. If the fans weren't screaming, they were singing. Half-an-hour before the game, we were out on the ground warming up and around 7000-8000 people were there and they were all singing. I couldn't understand the words and I turned to our five-eighth, Lee Briers, for a translation. "They want you to give them a wave," he told me. In the first half, after I dropped a ball, it was the Leeds' fans chance to get in on the act. This time I understood and it was pretty funny. They were singing "what a waste of money". 
The game itself was a revelation for me. In the sheds beforehand, I can honestly say I was as nervous as I was before Origin II earlier this season. I don't know whether it was picked up on the telecast but my hands were shaking that much, I couldn't get the football to stay on the tee for the kick-off. But we got off to a great start and every player in the Warrington side made it a memorable afternoon. The game itself was super fast and different from NRL games. In Australia, it is more direct with the emphasis on go-forward and building pressure. This game was different. It's as if there is something on from just about every play and there is just no time for a rest. At the same time, it is super physical. We didn't have the best build-up to the game. We lost three forwards to injury so to beat a side as good as the Rhinos by that scoreline left everyone associated with the club pretty happy. We led 18-12 at half-time but they got to within two before we skipped away again and it was fitting for Nathan Wood in his final club game for the Wolves on his home ground to get over for the final try. I was happy with the way it went personally. I didn't try to overplay my hand and I want to give a huge rap to all the team because they have made it easy for me to fit in and feel comfortable from day one. I must admit I wanted to have a big game. I thought I owed it to the club and the fans who have been so great to my partner Cath and I since we arrived. Everything that possibly could have been done for us has been and I can't thank the club enough. I really wanted to pay them back which is probably why I was so nervous beforehand. Thankfully, everything went well but the big games are still ahead of us so we won't be getting carried away. The celebrations were pretty big and started at the ground with all the corporates and a lot of the fans staying around to savour the moment. I know Knights fans are among the most passionate supporters but I reckon there is a whole heap of supporters here in Warrington who would give the people back home a run for their money. 
I'm happy things have started so well but it is not going to get any easier over the next month. I'm just going to enjoy it because I can tell you it is one hell of a ride. 

Defiant Cullen hails legend Johns 
If teams are going to target me they will take their eyes of Lee, Nathan Wood and other players in he side Paul Cullen has dismissed criticism of Warrington following the short-term capture of Australian ace Andrew Johns. Asked if he felt it was right to sign the 31-year-old scrum-half for just the last few games of the season, the coach responded: "That's not my concern. "Rules are rules and we are just smart enough to get there and do it. I would defy anyone who told me Andrew Johns should not be playing in Super League."
Johns will make his Wolves debut in Saturday's home clash with Leeds. The Newcastle star trained with his new team-mates for the first time on Wednesday and was surprised at the way he had settled in quickly. "We did some ball-work today and I was surprised how crisp it was," he said. "Warrington play a similar style to Newcastle but it's just a case of getting used to the calls. "The hardest bit will be forming a relationship with Lee Briers. It's all about sharing the ball around and working together." 
Johns is one of three NRL players to have made the switch to Super League for the tail-end of the season. Great Britain international and Sydney Roosters forward Adrian Morley has joined Bradford while Hull have snapped up New Zealand Warriors back-rower Sione Faumuina. But Johns, twice voted the world's best player, is by far the most high-profile signing. He expects to be singled out by opposition teams but says Warrington can only benefit. "If teams are going to target me they will take their eyes of Lee, Nathan Wood and other players in he side," he said.   I take great pride in playing for Australia and I always love touring England.

While his controversial move to Warrington for a maximum six games has its detractors, there is no doubting the influence Johns has already had.

Johns a lucky omen for Warrington  - 21 September 2005 
The omens are good for Andrew Johns' Warrington Wolves as they prepare for a rare English Super League finals campaign. "It's been 31 years, since 1974, we last won a major (trophy and) Andrew Johns and Natty (Nathan Wood), our two oldest players were born in 1974 so it's a little bit spooky," Warrington coach Paul Cullen told Super League TV. Johns' perfect two-from-two record in England has helped Warrington secure its best season finish in a decade and only second finals berth. Indeed the finals are so foreign to the Wolves that the playoff system had to be explained to fans on the official website. But Cullen said two words sum up why the Wolves can "give the finals a shake", starting with an elimination final against Hull on Sunday (AEST) - Andrew Johns. "We've got the best player in the world playing for us," he said. "We are delighted with the progress that we have made but we are not satisfied with what we've done this season - we want a little bit more yet." 
Cullen said the Wolves had lifted "a couple gears" upon Johns' arrival, namely in last Saturday's (AEST) clash against Hull when the Australian sparked a gutsy win despite a subdued display. "I think that is very evident," he said. "When we brought Andrew across it was something that we spoke about - it's not what he can do for us, it's what we can do for him as well. I think you saw that in abundance on Friday night at the Hull stadium - you had every one of our players steppinng up a couple of gears, they all want a piece of this." 
It may be 31 years since their last premiership but Cullen said the Wolves would use the "1974 call" to help create more history with a 2005 title. "The 1974 call is very important to us at the moment, especially when we are on the back foot," he said. "It was there in evidence in the game last Friday night, when we were down to 12 men and they were throwing everything at us including the kitchen sink and our line held firm. Those special calls really do dig in for you." 
Hull captain and Kiwi international Richard Swain admitted Johns had made Warrington a premiership force. "They were a good team before Andrew Johns came but now they are playing out of their skin," he said. "In saying that he was a little bit quiet on Friday night (but) he did lay on three tries so I'm sure Andrew Johns won't be quiet two weeks in a row." 

Joey's next phase of UK campaign - 23 September 2005 
With the first phase of his job done, Andrew Johns' Warrington assignment enters cut-throat stage on Saturday. At STG10,000 ($A24,000) a game, Johns has earned his keep so far by steering Warrington to wins in its last two matches of the English Super League season to secure this week's home final. And the champion Australian halfback needs to prove his worth again in Saturday's elimination final against Challenge Cup winners Hull. While his controversial move to Warrington for a maximum six games has its detractors, there is no doubting the influence Johns has already had. "He's had a really big impact - he's obviously playing really good footy, he always does, but I think he gets a lot out of players around him as well, a lot of guys are really stepping up to the mark," said Brent Grose, Warrington's player of the year and former Cronulla and South Sydney back. "So in that respect, he's been a massive difference for us and well worth it. 
There's nothing he can't do. It doesn't matter what team he plays for, whether it's Newcastle, New South Wales or Warrington, he's definitely the icing on the cake in all three of those sides. We feel pretty privileged to have him in our side." 
The Warrington fullback said Johns' presence also distracted opposition teams physically and mentally. "I'm sure they try to put it in their heads they're not going to worry about him," Grose said. "But he's got an aura about him and a real presence on the field. It'd be hard not to be taken back by it all, he's a special player." 
Johns landed in the north of England two weeks ago with a bang, a man-of-the-match performance leading Warrington to its first win over Leeds in four seasons. 
A more subdued but still influential game from Johns last week took the 12-man Wolves to a 30-16 win over Hull to wrap up a final at home. The world's best rugby league player needs to continue his magic touch as Warrington must win three elimination finals to reach the October 15 grand final. Grose believes Saturday's return encounter with Hull will be a step up from last week. "I'm sure it will be a lot more physical and probably a touch faster as well," Grose said. 
"They're a similar side to us and coming off a loss against us last week, I'm sure they'll be pumped up and looking for revenge." 
Hull's former St George and Kangaroo winger Nathan Blacklock adds further Australian flavour to the match and after crossing for two tries last week will be a major threat to Warrington's defence. "He's a great try scorer and he's a guy we've got be aware of," Grose said. 

Wolves bank on Joey's 'aura' - September 23, 2005 
At £10,000 ($24,000) a game, Johns has earned his keep by steering Warrington to wins in its last two matches of the English Super League season to secure this week's home final. Now the champion Australian needs to prove his worth again in the elimination final with Challenge Cup winner Hull. While his controversial move to Warrington for a maximum six games has its detractors, there is no doubting the influence Johns has already had. "He's had a really big impact - he's obviously playing really good footy, he always does, but I think he gets a lot out of players around him as well, a lot of guys are really stepping up to the mark," said Brent Grose, Warrington's player of the year and former Cronulla and South Sydney back. "So in that respect, he's been a massive difference for us and well worth it. There's nothing he can't do. It doesn't matter what team he plays for, whether it's Newcastle, New South Wales or Warrington, he's definitely the icing on the cake in all three of those sides. We feel pretty privileged to have him in our side." 
The Warrington fullback said Johns' presence also distracts opposition teams physically and mentally. "I'm sure they try to put it in their heads they're not going to worry about him," said Grose.   "But he's got an an aura about him and a real presence on the field. It'd be hard not to be taken back by it all, he's a special player." 
Johns landed in the north of England two weeks ago with a bang, a man-of-the-match performance leading Warrington to its first win over Leeds in four seasons. 
A more subdued but still influential game from Johns last week took the 12-man Wolves to a 30-16 win over Hull to wrap up a home final. The world's best rugby league player needs to continue his magic touch as Warrington must win three elimination finals to reach the October 15 grand final. Grose believes the Hull match will be a step up from last week. "I'm sure it will be a lot more physical and probably a touch faster as well," he said. "They're a similar side to us and coming off a loss against us last week, I'm sure they'll be pumped up and looking for revenge." 
Hull's former St George and Kangaroo winger, Nathan Blacklock, adds further Australian flavour to the match and, after crossing for two tries last week, will be a major threat to Warrington's defence. "He's a great try scorer and he's a guy we've got be aware of," said Grose. In the other knockout final this week, Bradford plays London on tomorrow (AEST), while top team St Helens meets second placed Leeds next week. 

I've been to Hull and back By Andrew Johns - September 26, 2005
I DON'T have one regret. Sure it is disappointing that my stint with Warrington has come to an end after just three games. I'll admit I was hoping for the fairytale - to win a Super League premiership medal with the Wolves. Maybe I had used up all my fairytales this year because it wasn't to be. Hull, with a big strong pack of forwards leading the way for them, were simply too strong for us. They grabbed a couple of first-half tries and we were guilty of not taking the opportunities that presented themselves. I thought we had the upper hand in the first 10 to 15 minutes but we lacked some patience and composure at certain stages. In the end, it was just one of those games. A bit like what St George-Illawarra and Parramatta experienced at the weekend. I'm disappointed for the boys. I'm disappointed for the fans and I'm disappointed for coach Paul Cullen. He was shattered that our run ended the way it did. But like I said before, I don't regret coming over here. It has been a sensational experience. The way we have been looked after and made to feel welcome has made it so easy for us. The friendships I have made here are friendships I will have for life. At this stage, I probably won't get home for the grand final and like a lot of people, I think it is a bit of a surprise to see Wests Tigers and North Queensland doing battle. I watched the Tigers-Dragons game and could not believe how well the Tigers played. You can see what sort of an influence Tim Sheens has had on that side. I've always rated him right up there as a coach and the plan he devised for his side to get around the Dragons' up-and-in defence was outstanding. Saints looked a little rusty to me. They had opportunities but more often than not, the final pass went down or didn't find its mark.
I was stunned by the Parramatta result - but good luck to the Cowboys. They were the fairytale last season and almost got to the decider, so to back up the next season is a credit to coach Graham Murray and his men. 

Warrington loss brings Johns home early - September 26, 2005
The English press's love affair with Andrew Johns appears over. And the star playmaker looks set to break more British hearts in the Tri Nations series after finally being named in the Australian Rugby League train-on squad. The English press appeared to turn on Johns after his goal of claiming the Super League title crashed and burned when his club Warrington was thrashed 40-6 by Hull in their elimination final. The end of his English campaign avoided a potential clash with Australia's Tri Nations Test against New Zealand on October 15 - also the day of the Super League grand final. There were initial concerns that Johns may not return to Australia in time for the opening Tri Nations clash after claiming he planned to "hang around for a couple of weeks" in Europe. However, his management said Johns' return would be known on Tuesday while Test selector Bob McCarthy confirmed the Newcastle halfback would be on show for the Telstra Stadium clash.
The Tri Nations series also features Great Britain and New Zealand. "The pressure is off him now. We would have picked him (for the first Test) but he had to make a decision if Warrington had made the final," McCarthy said. "But it's all easy now thank goodness."
Johns is now expected to threaten incumbent skipper Darren Lockyer for the Australian captaincy. Johns' lucrative, much-hyped English visit went pear-shaped on and off the field at the weekend. Besides the 34-point thrashing at the hands of the reigning Challenge Cup champions, the English media lambasted Johns for his post-match behaviour. "With more than a hint of his dummy being spat and toys hurled from his pram" was The Guardian newspaper's take on Johns' reaction to the thrashing. While complimenting his on-field efforts, the praise ended when describing the halfback's off-field demeanour.
"After the match he refused to expand on a brief and reluctant post-match interview with Sky (tv)," The Guardian said. "(It was) a jarring contrast with his willingness to discuss his dream debut against Leeds two weeks earlier. But not with his increasing reluctance in the subsequent fortnight to co-operate with the off-field promotional role for which Warrington have rewarded him so handsomely."
The newspaper also claimed Johns walked away from Warrington fans who had waited for his autograph. "'Oh mate, I just want to go' Johns said as he was shepherded away from the supporters waiting outside the stadium for his autograph and up to the corporate boxes where there was yet more flesh to press," The Guardian said. "The big question now is whether he will return next month with Australia for the Tri-Nations series, after being taunted mercilessly throughout the second half by the jubilant Hull supporters."
Johns was goaded with chants of "you're going home". He said of his three-game Warrington stint, reportedly at STG10,000 ($A24,000) a match: "I'm disappointed with the way I played, but I've enjoyed my time over here, even though it's been short."

Andrew Johns to return to Australia - September 26, 2005
The English press's love affair with Andrew Johns appears over. The star playmaker looks set to break more British hearts in the Tri Nations series after finally being named in the Australian Rugby League train-on squad today. The English press appeared to turn on Johns after his goal of claiming the Super League title crashed and burned when his club Warrington was thrashed 40-6 by Hull in their elimination final. The end of his English campaign avoided a potential clash with Australia's Tri Nations Test against New Zealand on October 15 - also the day of the Super League grand final. There were initial concerns that Johns may not return to Australia in time for the opening Tri Nations clash after claiming he planned to "hang around for a couple of weeks" in Europe. However, Test selector Bob McCarthy said the Newcastle halfback would be on show for the Telstra Stadium clash. Johns's management tonight said his return date would be known tomorrow. The Tri Nations series also features Great Britain and New Zealand. "The pressure is off him now. We would have picked him (for the first Test) but he had to make a decision if Warrington had made the final," McCarthy said. "But it's all easy now thank goodness." 
Johns is now expected to threaten incumbent skipper Darren Lockyer for the Australian captaincy. Johns' lucrative, much-hyped English visit went pear-shaped on and off the field at the weekend. Besides the 34-point thrashing at the hands of the reigning Challenge Cup champions, the English media lambasted Johns for his post-match behaviour. "With more than a hint of his dummy being spat and toys hurled from his pram" was The Guardian newspaper's take on Johns' reaction to the thrashing. While complimenting his on-field efforts, the praise ended when describing the halfback's off-field demeanour.
"After the match he refused to expand on a brief and reluctant post-match interview with Sky (tv)," The Guardian said. "(It was) a jarring contrast with his willingness to discuss his dream debut against Leeds two weeks earlier. "But not with his increasing reluctance in the subsequent fortnight to co-operate with the off-field promotional role for which Warrington have rewarded him so handsomely."
The newspaper also claimed Johns walked away from Warrington fans who had waited for his autograph. "'Oh mate, I just want to go' Johns said as he was shepherded away from the supporters waiting outside the stadium for his autograph and up to the corporate boxes where there was yet more flesh to press," The Guardian said. "The big question now is whether he will return next month with Australia for the Tri-Nations series, after being taunted mercilessly throughout the second half by the jubilant Hull supporters."
Johns was goaded with chants of "you're going home".
He said of his three-game Warrington stint, reportedly at $24,000 a match: "I'm disappointed with the way I played, but I've enjoyed my time over here, even though it's been short."

Andrew Johns Web chat Transcript
Karen Robinson, Warrington: How does the media and fan attention compare with home?
Andrew: The media is a lot less intense and definitely less intrusive over here. I think it's because football is so big over here. The fans are very similar but it can be a bit of a fish bowl.

Trudie Boothroyd, Gorse Covert: How do you feel being in Britain just in time to watch England lift the Ashes?
Andrew: Couldn't give a rats because the Ashes will only be here for 18 months. Make hay while the sun shines. 

Chris, Latchford: Joey, being a idol to players all over the world. Who did you look up to earlier in your career?
Andrew: The English players I looked up to were Ellery Hanley and Jonathon Davies especially, who also played for Warrington. 

Paul, Penketh: What do you think of the nightlife in Warrington??
Andrew: Went for a few cheeky drinks Saturday night. Still trying to adjust to the pints. Let's just say they hit me like a sledgehammer, can't really remember the night.

Dave, Leigh: Hi Joey, there is a great Thai restaurant in Lymm. Congratulations on your MOM performance and the passion you showed last weekend for the Wire! What is your impression of the atmosphere and facilities at Warrington? Has Nat Wood got you with any of his practical jokes yet? 
Andrew: I'm watching Nathan like a hawk. Have heard about his pranks over here and in Oz. I dare say it won't be long and he'll get me. But he better watch out cos there'll be a square up. 

Stecoops, Warrington: If you could play alongside any player in the world who would it be? The Siam Glaxay on Bridge Street does Thai food, recommended! 
Andrew: Would love to play alongside Martin Gleeson on a permanent basis. Might have some excess baggage on the way home! Thanks for the tip, I'll try the Thai.

cameron, orford: wot do u think of Lee Briers? 
Andrew: I think Lee is potentially a world calss five eight, outstanding vision, great kicking game, and great instincts. Really enjoying playing with him. 

Alex Gilbertson, Penketh: What would mean more to you winning the super league with warrington or the nrl with newcastle?
Andrew: Would fulfill a dream and would give me memories and friendships which would last a lifetime. 

Julie/jo, caledonia alfa romeo: Have u managed to watch any english football while here, if so did u enjoy it and who did u watch?
Andrew: I'm going to watch Liverpool v Man United on Sunday. Really excited about that. I follow the Premier League in Australia but haven't got a particular team. More support the Australia players who play over here, Kewell, Viduka etc. 

Phil, Warrington: How does Paul Cullen compare to the other coaches you have worked with and does he have what it takes to take us all the way?
Andrew: Paul's very enthusiastic, he relates very well with the players. Looks like a very good manager of personalities and different players. Tactically he's first class, enjoying being coached by him. There's more brownie points form the coach. 

Marie Taylor: How are you handling the food in england the take out not the same us knight supporters need you to say hi for us to the taylors in warrington we told them you were going there good luck we,re very proud of you
Andrew: Sampled fish and chips, they're top class. I do all the cooking at home, so nothing much has changed. In Australia I love Thai restaurants, haven't found one yet over here. 

Emma, Padgate, Warrington: Well done for your MOM performance against Leeds. How many tattoos have you got and what do they symbolise?
Andrew: I've got five. One's my boy's name and birth date, one's my girlfriend's name on my foot, got that to get some brownie points. Got a knights tattoo on my back when we've won two premierships. The next one hopefully will be a Warrington Wolves with 05 on it. 

ben davies, orford, warrington: Who do you rate as the best halfback in superleague?
Andrew: I think Sean Long, Richard Horne and Danny Maguire are all pretty even. 

Natalie: What do you think about warrington fan's??
Andrew: Really passionate, extremely loud and a pleasure to play in front of. 

Rick Higham, Blackpool: Hi joey what would you say if you was asked by Mr Moran to stay permanent for the Wire?
Andrew: I would love to extend my stay. Unfortunately, I have a contract to honour at Newcastle but wrapped that Simon offered me a position at this club. 

Tom, Cinnamon Brow: whos the most toughest and dedicated player you have played with or against? 
Andrew: My Newcastle team mate Danny Buderus and he's the Australian hooker. 

Mark Lythgoe, Croydon, London: How are you settling into life in England? 
Andrew: Enjoying the change. The weather hasn't been too bad. The people are very nice but I miss the beach. Other than that I love it. 

Adam Picken, 42 ackers road, Warrington: Apart from the obvious Lee Briers & Nathan Wood. Is there anyone within our team who you feel stands out from the rest and has the potential of being a great player over the next coming years. im sure you can spot someone who has the something extra with all your experience? 
Andrew: Martin Gleeson is possibly the best centre I've played with and I've played with some champions in Australia. 

Kelvyn Gardner, Pendragon, Wicken, Northants: On Saturday you must have been very tired and not really over jetlag. Are you feeling fresher and ready for action this week?
Andrew: Not as tired or jetlagged this week. Training has been even better, so hopefully that'll show in a better performance. 

Simon, Mill lane, St Heath: What did all the two finger signals mean between the players during the Leeds game?
Andrew: It was the name of the set where we had to attack to. It was impossible to yell the call out so used the hand signal. 

Anita Waters, Latchford, Warrington: Hiya Andrew,
You have said that you have never heard your name chanted before like you heard on saturday. Would you say you prefer the quiet crowds from back home, or  the loud, noisy, chanting crowds over here? 
Andrew: Definitely the noisy ones. It inspires you to play better. 

Jed, Australia: You say you'll be too old to come back when you finish with the Knights, but the Smith brothers are currently carving it up back in Oz, are you sure you wouldn't consider a return, even for a season?
Andrew: By that stage I would have had enough. I got a lot of interest outside of football, such as surfing so I still want to be fit enough to surf and play with my young family. 

Sam Styles, Culcheth, Warrington: Has the standard of the English super league surprised you at all?   How does it compare to playing in Australia?? Let's beat Hull!!!
Andrew: I'm surprised by how strong the comp is over here. Every bit as strong as Australia. It's a lot more open and a lot faster. 

Mark, Lingley Green: Joey, Do you think we can get to the Grand Final?
Andrew: Definitely. Important that we win this Friday and have home semi finals. 

chayce bambach, newcastle: mate thanks for comming around to visit my u/15's souths team before the grand final. we won it again. you boosted our confidence from it. my question is how do you reakon you will go against the big forwards over there in england and do you feel you will be targeted.
Andrew: Targeted a little bit but hopefully I will be smart enough to stay away from the big boys. 

Becky, Cinnamon Brow: Why do people call you Joey? Whats the logic behind it?
Andrew: My dad gave me that nickname when I was a young boy and it's just stuck. 

Snowy, Guildford: What do you think of the Pommy sheilas?
Andrew: My girlfriend's a pommy. 

Ian, Southampton: Joey, when your contract with Newcastle Knights runs out, would you consider coming back to play for a full season with the Wolves, if the chance was to arise?
Andrew: No, cos I'll to too old at that stage. I'll be 34 or 35 so ready to retire.

Johns is a barge arse 
ANDREW JOHNS’ tag as the greatest player in the world means nothing to his new Warrington team-mates. To them, the Australian sensation is known as BARGE ARSE because of his big backside. Johns’ new Wolves pals even say it to his face — insisting that is the only way he will gel with the team.
Captain Lee Briers, 27, said: “It says a lot about him that he can take stick like that. People think that because he’s a superstar he might be arrogant. But he’s not in the slightest. “He gets stick off everybody, especially about the size of his backside. But he’s all right with the Barge Arse nickname. He’s a top personality.”
Johns, 31, is earning around £15,000 per match in a bid to help fourth-placed Warrington reach the Grand Final next month. The half-back is being paid almost as much as some fringe Warrington players earn in a year. But Briers insists the Aussie Test star will be worth every penny to the club. Briers added: “He is unbelievable. In his first training session we all stood back and watched him. We couldn’t believe how good he is. “But it’s not just what he does himself, it’s the effect he has on everybody else. He’s organising and motivating us all the time, bringing out the best in everybody.”
Warrington host fifth-placed Hull in Saturday’s elimination play-off game. 

Ready for attack - October 07, 2005 
AUSTRALIAN halfback Andrew Johns last night declared himself "fresh and ready" for an all-out assault on this year's Tri-Nations tournament. The world's greatest player returns to Australia from England tomorrow night and will go into camp with the Kangaroos on Sunday. Johns has completed a brief playing stint with English Super League club Warrington and says he is now focused purely on representing Australia. "Seeing it's two years since I've played for Australia, pulling on the green and gold again will be a huge thrill," he said. "Even when I signed to play with Warrington I made it very clear that playing for Australia had always been a great honour and privilege. "It was a disappointing start to the season for me personally and for the Knights. But bouncing back to play Origin, being part of a Knights team that performed outstandingly in the latter part of the competition, then getting an opportunity to play for the Wolves and winning selection in the Australian team means that I'll finish the year on a real high. I feel fresh, ready and fit following my time with the Wolves and I'm really looking forward to catching up with the blokes in camp on Sunday and performing well in the Tri-Nations." 
The Kangaroos trained twice this week and will reassemble on Sunday. Coach Wayne Bennett will train his side on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday next week before the opening match against New Zealand at Telstra Stadium on Saturday night. Australian skipper Darren Lockyer and centre Matt Cooper continue to battle hamstring injuries. Bennett will name the team on Tuesday. ARL officials are hoping for a crowd of around 25,000 for the match. The game has, however, lost some gloss with Kiwi and Wests Tigers star five-eighth Benji Marshall withdrawing to have a shoulder reconstruction. Marshall, who has surgery on Tuesday, will be sidelined for up to six months and will miss the World Club Challenge in February. There is also the possibility Marshall will be unavailable for the club's opening one or two NRL premiership games next season. New Zealand will be missing another of their injured stars in Bulldogs player Sonny Bill Williams. 

Johns to pull on green and gold - October 10, 2005 
LESS than a month after putting club before country, Kangaroos playmaker Andrew Johns today said he was honoured to be pulling on the green and gold again. 
Johns will line up for Australia for the first time in two years when he runs on to Telstra Stadium for the Tri-Nations opener against New Zealand on Saturday. 
The champion halfback admitted he thought his days in the international arena were numbered after a slow start to the NRL season, and was relieved to be once again pulling on the Kangaroos jersey. "It's something I never take for granted, playing for this jumper, and I'm going to make the most of it going out there on Saturday night," Johns said today. It's been (two) years since I played for Australia and four years since I've played with players like Darren Lockyer. And just going to England I got a taste of what the atmosphere's going to be like over there. It's out of this world, the singing and the chanting and just the passion for the game over there, I can't wait to get over there and be a part of it." 
Johns' loyalty to the green and gold was called into question after the Newcastle No.7's opted for a stint with English Super League club Warrington. With the Super League grand final clashing with Australia's match against the Kiwis on Saturday, Johns said he would play in the English decider ahead of the Test. 
Ultimately he wasn't forced to choose, thanks to Warrington's semi-final loss to Hull. The Newcastle maestro, who returned to Australia yesterday after a holiday in Europe, is expected to be named at halfback tomorrow to make his first appearance in the green and gold since taking on New Zealand in Sydney in 2003. 
The 18-Test veteran admitted there were times when he thought his international career was over, particularly after a substandard start to the 2005 season with the Knights as he continued recovery from a knee injury. "I suppose at the start of the year, I think everyone saw how bad I was playing, the last thing on my mind was getting back and playing again for my country," Johns said. "I was playing awful, and that's probably being nice. That's just the way we were going at the club level, I think we lost 13 straight at Newcastle, my confidence was down and so was the side's." 
Johns said he was aware of the pressure of maintaining Australia's long-standing dominance and said he had a first-hand taste of the hype being generated in England about their team's chances in the tournament. "There is that added pressure every time (an) Australian rugby league team goes over and it's just something you've got to live with," Johns said. "In England they generally think that they're going to win it so it's fantastic for the game. I think if you go to New Zealand it may be the same. It's going to be exciting and I definitely think it's going to be a real tight series and fingers crossed we've got the players to come home with it." 

Joey's return - October 11, 2005 
KANGAROOS halfback Andrew Johns revealed for the first time yesterday the genuine fears he harboured just months ago of never representing Australia again. 
And Knights coach Michael Hagan also pinpointed the day in March when he believed Johns first experienced concerns over his playing future. While desperately attempting to lift Newcastle out of the club's horror rut earlier this year, Johns said he felt his Test days were all but over. It has now been two years since Johns played for the Kangaroos but yesterday he looked comfortable once again in a green and gold jumper. Asked were there periods when he felt his Australian career was over, Johns said: "There were definitely times, especially at the start of the year when I was playing badly. "The last thing on my mind then was playing for Australia. You never take the Australian jersey for granted." 
Johns said his confidence was down during the Knights' horror stretch. I was playing awful," Johns said. "We weren't going well at club level, I think we had lost 13 matches. My confidence was down, as was the confidence of the team. It affected my performances. But we turned it around over the last few months of the season." 
Hagan said Johns was carrying injuries early this year and remembers a match against Canberra at Canberra Stadium, which Newcastle lost 39-14. "After that game he had some concerns about whether he would get back," said Hagan, this year's Queensland coach. "It was the first time I thought he had real doubts about his own ability. But being picked for Australia is a fitting reward for all the hard work he put in over the past 18 months. He has come back fit and strong – I was hoping he wouldn't have come back that early though to destroy Queensland." 
Johns will be Australia's halfback when coach Wayne Bennett today names his side for Saturday night's opening Tri-Nations Test against New Zealand at Telstra Stadium. Skipper and five-eighth Darren Lockyer remains in doubt with a hamstring injury, as does centre Matt Cooper. "It's been a while since I have played for Australia with guys like Darren Lockyer," Johns said. "Playing in England (during a recent stint with Warrington) has given me a taste of the crowds over there – they sing and they chant. It's out of this world. I can't wait to get back there. I feel a bit jet-lagged. But I had dinner with the guys last night and you know it's the real deal when you put the green and gold on." 
Johns said Australia will face a monumental assignment during the tournament given the continuing improvement in English football. "They will field a bigger forward pack than ours," said Johns. "New Zealand will also have a massive forward pack. We need to control the ball. If we don't it will be a tough night for us." 

Surfer Joe - October 13, 2005
IT is the sport that gives Andrew Johns his "release" from rugby league's pressure and intensity. Johns and Australian teammates Mark Gasnier and Craig Fitzgibbon took to the Bondi beach waves yesterday as Saturday night's Test against New Zealand at Homebush approaches. "Rugby league players are put on a high pedestal," Johns said on his DVD Joey: The Andrew Johns story so far. Whenever you go out people want to know about football. But surfing is a release from that. When I'm out in the water they don't care if I've won grand finals or Origins. They still drop in on me and don't talk about football."
Johns' mate and renowned surfer Matt Hoy added: "Surfing helps Joey relax and get away from everything. "There's no pressure on him. It's just a bit of fun for him."  And despite several wipe-outs in the very average surf yesterday (sorry Joey, we just had to pick the best wipe-out as the bigger picture), Johns is an excellent surfer who can hold his own at most breaks.