Hagan tells pack to protect Johns By Brent Read 
Newcastle coach Michael Hagan has challenged his forward pack to protect the world's best player, Andrew Johns, from an expected Bradford onslaught in the upcoming World Club Challenge.  The Knights leave for Leeds on Friday for the game against the Bulls at McAlpine Stadium in Huddersfield on February 2.  And it comes as no surprise that the English champions have already singled out Johns as the man standing between them and the world title.  The Test No.7 recently picked up his second Golden Boot award as the world's best player and has been a standout at Newcastle training in the lead-up to the Bradford clash.  "I would think they probably would (target Johns)," Hagan said.  "I think we have been through that before with him. "It's pretty hard to take him out of the line of fire so I would expect a few blokes to keep an eye out for him. "He's in such good nick he wants to get as much done as he can because he hasn't had an off-season for the last four years or so." 

Johns rates WCC as high as grand final
Newcastle captain Andrew Johns believes winning this weekend's rugby league World Club Challenge would rate alongside the Knights' NRL grand final win. Johns, who led the Knights to victory against Parramatta last September, said beating English Super League champions Bradford would be as sweet as the premiership win.  "To captain the side that won a grand final was something special but to captain the team over here, with a bit of adversity and a few players missing, would be right up there alongside it," Johns told the Teamtalk website.  "We're taking the game very seriously and hopefully everyone will get behind it to make it a special occasion."
"It's going to be a change but I suppose it's better going from hot to cold than the other way around," Johns said. "We've trained for the last three weeks with the English ball and I think we're ready.  "We're missing a few key players but the beauty at Newcastle is that we've got such great youth development. People might not know who some of these young players who've come in are right now - but in 12-18 months time they definitely will."
 

"I have to change my [phone] number a fair bit, which becomes a bit of a pain in the arse," he says. "People just ring up and scream. People drive past. I think 50 per cent of Newcastle know where I live. It just drives you crazy."  Joey Johns.

Wigan ready to chase Johns   By Brent Read 
Super League giant Wigan is expected to intensify its bid for Andrew Johns after the Newcastle half overnight indicated he was keen to play in England when his contract expired at the end of 2004. Johns, who is in England with the Knights for the World Club Challenge against Super League champion Bradford, has long been a target of Wigan chairman Maurice Lindsay. The Wigan boss has made no secret of his desire to have the brilliant No.7 in a Warriors jersey and has already spoken to Johns' manager John Fordham. He is expected to hold further talks with Johns while he is in England, however, Fordham said it was too early to make any prediction on the Test half's future, with rugby union also an option down the track. "It's a pipedream at the moment," Fordham said today. "Maurice has indicated to me countless times he would like the Newcastle No.7 wearing a jersey with Wigan.  "It (England) is an option but rugby union is as well.  "But he's got three years to play yet (with Newcastle). No one in their right mind would be making a decision now where they are playing in four years time."
Johns' brother Matthew spent last season at Wigan's JJB Stadium before returning to Australia at the end of the year to link with the Sharks.  Andrew has conceded on website rugby.com it remained his ambition to play in England at the end of his existing contract.  The two-time Golden Boot winner will be 30 in 2004 and much will depend on how his battered body holds up to the rigours of the NRL over the next three years. "I'd have to weigh it up first with my family because it's a big move but I'd definitely love to give it a go over here."  The chance to secure Johns would likely set off a signing frenzy among the Super League superpowers. And Fordham made it clear today if Johns made the decision to move to England, Wigan would have to compete with the rest of the English clubs for his services. Meanwhile, former Test captain Mal Meninga today said Johns' larrikin image shouldn't count against him when Australian selectors decide on a new Test captain later this year.  Johns, who is certain to lead NSW in this year's State of Origin series, and Queensland captain Gorden Tallis are the top candidates to replace Brad Fittler at the helm of the Kangaroos.  "I think Andrew Johns has got some chance obviously being the Knights captain and the best (player) in the world," Meninga said.  "The Australian captaincy is an all-round position. You need to be good on the field and off the field.  "You make mistakes and you learn.  "Tallis is a terrific chance as well. I like the way he leads people."

Captain Sensible -  SMH, 1 Feb 2002
Andrew Johns used to shun responsibility but now the world's best player is eyeing the Australian captaincy. 
Andrew Johns is seated at a table in a function room in the refurbished Queens Hotel in Leeds. In 40 minutes, he will be presented with the Golden Boot as the finest rugby league player on earth - for the second time. No-one else has won it more than once. Johns probably should have won the Golden Boot four or five times. But prowess as a player may not be the most interesting thing about the celebrated goalkicking halfback.  Sure, "Joey" is an individual who dominates a team sport in a very rare way. Comparisons with Don Bradman and Michael Jordan are onerous but that is the sort of game he plays - influence results single-handedly on a regular basis. However, Newcastle is perhaps the only rugby league city where fans, players, officials and sponsors really do come from a broad spectrum of society. And Johns is drawn from a section of society that does not produce rugby league players often. He's a surfer who isn't afraid to dye his hair fire-engine red before a big game. Or be photographed the week after winning last year's grand final wearing a dress. Or skateboard down the middle of Hunter Street with a can of VB in his hand, posing for another photographer. Rugby league culture, by comparison, is not just conservative, it's anachronistic. When a man with slightly different values shows up and becomes its No1 player, there are bound to be sparks. And Johns would have been happy for the sparks to continue, as his own genius meant he was never burnt by them.  Then Brad Fittler announced he was retiring from Test football, and suddenly there was one sizeable incentive for the wild man of league to become its most upstanding citizen.
Johns, at the beginning of the 2002 season, has to decide just how much of himself to sacrifice in the name of having a "c" sandwiched by parentheses after his name. "I'm starting to realise now that nearly all the things I do people are watching," he says, the Golden Boot sitting invitingly in front of him. What made him realise this? He smiles wryly. "Oh, maybe a few things. It's only now that I'm starting to care about it. In the past, people would chew me out and say: 'You've got to be careful what you do'. And I would think: 'Well, this is the way I am, I like to have fun'.  "Like most young blokes, you get yourself in a little bit of trouble. But I think it's just the process of growing up, getting older, having more responsibilities in life. Not only my life but I'm starting to understand the responsibility that goes with my position in the game."
Not so long ago, Johns turned down the Newcastle captaincy. He had grown tired of his own celebrity and craved a place away from the spotlight. It was only the appointment of Bill Peden as club skipper that convinced him to taking the job of team captain.  Nowadays, Johns volunteers for public duties. On Monday, he insisted on crossing the Pennines on a nasty northern night to watch St Helens play Widnes in a pre-season friendly. A gaggle of his teammates went along for the ride.  There is a reformation taking place, but Johns insists it is not calculated so that the ARL or NSWRL will suddenly see him as the new Wayne Pearce. He's just following his instincts.  "I'm starting to get more of a kick out of bringing young blokes on," he says. "I know last year me and Sean Rudder were doing a lot of work together ... when he did do it during the game, I got a real kick out of it. Going on the tour, I did a lot of stuff with Braith [Anasta] and Trent [Barrett], although Trent didn't need too much polishing up."
Likely NSW coach Phil Gould has already said Johns would make a good captain. Joey does not expect to ever be picked at hooker for a representative side again. "I don't like playing hooker, I don't want to play hooker," he says bluntly.  "I've got a pretty good relationship with Gus. I've got great respect for him as a coach. He coached me in '95 in the Origin. He's got a great mind. If my form warrants it, I think we'd make a great coach-captain partnership."
Johns could have gone the other way, of course: a talent who shunned responsibility. Joey could have ended up a reluctant public figure whose natural exuberance was squeezed out of him by tedious wowsers.  Maybe it's the Australian captaincy, maybe it's fatherhood, maybe he ran out of hair dye and frocks. But change, he has.  So when a captain is picked for the July Test against Great Britain, will it be enough? Will the ARL directors make a choice based on what they know about Johns, or what they think they know? He's compromised - will they?
Maybe Johns would like to tell them not to judge him by rumours. Maybe he'd like them to tell him what their reservations about his character might be. But he's not going to ask.   "I don't like to get involved in politics. If they pick me as captain, it will be one of the best things that ever happened to me. If they don't, so be it."
Johns may or may not be getting too big for rugby league but there is ample evidence that living in Newcastle is placing pressure on his young family.  "I have to change my [phone] number a fair bit, which becomes a bit of a pain in the arse," he says. "People just ring up and scream. People drive past. I think 50 per cent of Newcastle know where I live. It just drives you crazy. I enjoy being over here where no-one sort of knows you and you can walk around. It just gets a bit weird when you hear your name being whispered and people pointing. It can get a bit too much."
One escape route would be to join Wigan, as the Lancashire club's chairman Maurice Lindsay would dearly love him to do, in three years' time. "I briefly talked to him after the Third Test at a presentation," Johns says. "I think John Fordham had some unofficial meeting with him, just loosely talked about it. Maurice has just been in Australia."
Another would be to accept the suggestion that it's time he moved on to a "more global" game and followed Wendell Sailor, Mat Rogers, Jason Robinson and Henry Paul to rugby union.  On this, Johns is unequivocal. "It's different for Wendell to go across and for someone like me," he says. "Look at Henry Paul. I understand he's not enjoying it. I think I played half a dozen games at school. To be totally honest, I'd be afraid I wouldn't make it. So why take the risk and risk my reputation?
"I don't think so. They've got George Gregan there anyway. I don't think I'd play halfback in union anyway. If I was going to play, I'd more than likely play five-eighth. and they've got Steve Larkham."  So it's Newcastle, Wigan, retirement and coaching? Johns has started thinking about retirement and says he'd like to coach, not necessarily in first grade. Could he afford to retire on his earnings thus far?   "I don't know," he shrugs. "If you said to me, 'How much money have you got?' I wouldn't know. I was brought up with no money so that is not the driving force."
Johns's opposing skipper in Saturday evening's clash, Bradford's Robbie Paul, remembers an early encounter with the Knights star at Test level.  "Australia was kicking off and he was standing there on another cold New Zealand evening, the wind blowing up a gale, bouncing up and down screaming, 'Woo-hoo, woo yeah'. I was thinking, 'Is this guy a little bit crazy or what?' It makes you wonder what makes him tick."  A day later Johns is squinting. "What makes me tick?" he asks. "I wouldn't have a clue ... enjoyment. I just love playing. I love everything to do with the game. I know when I finish, it's going to break my heart when I can't play anymore. But while it's here, I'm going to make the most of it."  We shall soon find out if rugby league is grown up enough to make the most of him.

The world according to Joey -  01 Feb 2002, Newcastle Herald
Andrew Johns says he will never play rugby union and does not expect to ever be picked out of position in a representative rugby league side again. In a wide-ranging and frank interview with The Newcastle Herald conducted on the eve of him leading Newcastle into the World Club Challenge clash with Bradford, Johns also said he felt like his off-field conduct was being scrutinised as the search begins for a successor for national skipper Brad Fittler. Johns became the first player to be presented twice with the Golden Boot as the game's best exponent when he was honoured at a small ceremony in Leeds yesterday. Interviewed with the trophy sitting in front of him shortly before the presentation got under way, he was emphatic that the days of filling in at hooker for NSW and Australia were over. 'I think maybe I've proved that point now,' he said. 'With 'Gus' Gould coaching, hopefully ... I'm not saying I should be there but if my form warrants it ...' . 
Johns revealed that Wigan chairman Maurice Lindsay had recently held talks with his agent, John Fordham, despite the fact he has three years to run on his contract with the Knights. The Australian Rugby Union are also expected to be keen suitors but Johns has bad news for them. 'I sort of look at the blokes who've gone across,' Johns said. 'It's different for Wendell to go across and for someone like me. Look at Henry Paul. I understand he's not enjoying it. To be totally honest, I'd be afraid I wouldn't make it. So why take the risk and risk my reputation?' Johns also says he feels under the microscope more than ever with the Australian captaincy up for grabs. 'I'm starting to realise now that, nearly all the things I do, people are watching,' 

KNIGHTS,  20/02/2002 -  Andrew Johns has injured his delicate perineum again. Describing exactly which part of the body that is can be difficult, but Newcastle coach Michael Hagan summed it up as: "It's down where it hurts." The upshot is that Johns won't play in Saturday night's trial against the Sharks at Port Macquarie. But he is desperate to be fit for their Country Carnival clash with Penrith in Cessnock on March 2.

Johns and Kennedy in drink-fuelled row
The Newcastle Knights have been embarrassed on the eve of their title defence by an alcohol-related incident involving captain Andrew Johns and second-rower Ben Kennedy.  Australian teammates Johns and Kennedy had a heated argument on Sunday night at the Beach Hotel in Merewether, Newcastle, where several Knights players were socialising.  The pair left the hotel and continued their argument in the park opposite the premises.  The scene was witnessed by hundreds of patrons at the popular venue. The Knights will investigate the incident and the players could face action under the club's drug and alcohol policy, introduced in June 1999.  "What we had to ascertain is who was involved and exactly what happened," acting Knights chief executive officer Stephen Crowe said last night.  "We are satisfied that it was not of a serious nature and that there is no remaining issue between the two players." 
The Knights were issued with a $35,000 breach notice from the National Rugby League after players, including Johns and Kennedy, admitted to unruly behaviour on flights between Townsville and Sydney in August last year. John Fordham, who manages both players, said they remained the best of friends. "They had a disagreement over a matter involving football," Fordham said. "They sought to leave the public arena so they could talk in privacy about the disagreement. They did not leave the hotel to fight over the matter.  "Other people followed them with the expectation they were going to take their disagreement to a physical level. That never happened. They have been in the company of each other [yesterday] and retain the utmost personal and professional respect for each other."  The issue could have repercussions for Johns in his push to become the new Australian captain, as his perceived off-field behaviour is believed to count against him.

Peoples champ pulls not punches March 10, 2002,  Sun herald.
Andrew Johns is like every other genius among us - his brillance earns him a longer leash.  There is often something about them that can't be fences in and when it comes to Johns and the Newcastle Knights, its a case of risk management.  The club knows he is a bit of a larikin who can occassionally be a risk when he has a few drinks and they try to manage it.
With out him, Newcastle would not have won two premierships - they would have on none.  Plays like him can make coaches, they can make officials,  they can make clubs.  So they are allowed some leeway.  In terms of alcohol fuelled incidents in rugby league, what happened between Johns and Knights second rower Ben kennedy at the beach hotel in the Newcastls suburb of merewether last sunday night was minor. 
The club, in its public response, jumped on the fact that no punches were thrown, no property was damaged and no one got hurt.  It was a predictable response, given the playing stature of the people involved. It was also predictable that they glossed over, publicly at least, that fact that a slanging match between two star players, in the middle of a crowded pub, and then outside of it, had the potential to escalate into something worse. "Joey" Johns plays his football like its a life or death situation.  He sets himself astronomical standards and his is bitterly disappointed if he doesnt meet them. He sets very high standards for his teammates too and its not unusual for him to tongue last them - rookies or fellow stars - if they make a mistake during a game.  That's the fierce, competitive streak in him coming out.  He's into winning, like he should be.
Normally he isn't into self praise, he resists the temptation to talk himself up to the media. But when he's letting his hair down and having a few drinks with his teammates, the cheeky side in him comes out.  One of his favourite lines is, "I'm the peoples champ", in reference to his having won a string of best player awards as voted by the public.  he'll stir his teammates up and tell them Newcastle arn't the same team without him.  Apparently it is all meant in good fun and mostly taken that way, but it shouldn't be surprising that, somewhere along the way, someone got a bit upset. 
Last Sunday night Kennedy also a test player, objected to a comment John's made about something or someone and it went from there.  It won't affect Newcastle's chances of winning or anything like that. It might even turn into a positive, as a timely reminder that big name footballers are in the spotlight and even when a confrontation effectively fizzles out it can still make headlines.
John's wasn't talking to the media during the week, but from all accounts he was fuming about the coverage the incident received.  he was particularly peeved at the suggestion it might cost him the australian captaincy.  The incident won't help him, but it probably won't set him back. The board of the Australian Rugby league will make the decision on who will succeed Brad Fitler and indications before last weekend were that Johns was already behind Brisbane and QLD captain Gorden Tallis.  Reaction to the incident has been divided.  Former australia captain Max Krilich was quoted in the newspaper yesterday, saying it was questionable whether Johns should get the captaincy because he was a 'loose cannon'.  Fittler on the other hand, said the mater had been blown right out of proportions.  "Its not up to me to nominate an Australian Captaincy..  but i can't believe an arguement with a mate would affect Andrew Johns chances."  "I think Joey is a great player and a born leader - of course he should be considered." he said.

The fight to tame my inner larrikin -  17 Mar 2002,  Sun Herald
In the most revealing interview of his career, Andrew Johns talks to Danny Weidler about his Kangaroo captaincy dreams, the love of his family, his party boy image and that blue with Ben Kennedy. 
SUN-HERALD: There has been a lot of speculation about who should be the next Australian captain. Is it a job you're ready for? Does your off-field record work against you? 
Andrew Johns: The captaincy issue has been pumped up by the media in the pre-season, at a time when there's been very little serious football to write about. There's a lot of football before Australia play Great Britain in July, which will allow plenty of time for the obvious candidates to make an impression. 
I guess I'm as ready as anyone else, having captained a premiership team and been a representative player since 1995. The appropriate group of people will judge my credentials and I'm happy to live with that. 
S-H: You seem to be viewed as a gamble as a leader by some sections. What do think the problem is? 
AJ:Newcastle didn't think I was a gamble and I don't believe I'm a gamble. I'm happy to stand behind my record to date. 
S-H: A position like that brings extra scrutiny. Do you need all this attention on your on- and off-field behaviour and are you prepared to handle it or will it annoy you? 
AJ: From where I sit, the support I have received far outweighs the negatives. One former Test captain [Max Krilich] claimed I was a ``loose cannon". I've never met the man so how could his assessment be taken seriously? 
The constant scrutiny is part and parcel of being a high-profile sportsperson. I've no alternative but to put up with it and manage it the best I can. I've got to learn to deal with the scrutiny if I get the job. Steve Waugh had to adapt, so did Freddie [Brad Fittler] and John Eales. It's just a part of it. 
S-H: But you appear to be more a free spirit than the likes of Eales and Waugh. 
AJ: I am a free spirit. Warren Ryan told me that I can't run from responsibility all my life and I realised 18 months ago that I could be a leader. If I do get [the Australian captaincy] that's great. If I don't I'll support Locky [Darren Lockyer] or Gordie [Gorden Tallis] ... it won't be the end of the world. 
S-H: You seem to have the inside running for the Blues job this season and coach Phil Gould has been very supportive. Should that make the path clearer for the national job? 
AJ: I've read and heard that I am a chance for the Blues captaincy. If I get it, I will be very proud. Gus has spoken in favour of me, and that is something I really appreciate. I don't necessarily think of captaining the Blues as a path to the national job. The job captaining the Blues, should I be given the responsibility, will be simply to beat Queensland. 
S-H: Are you too competitive sometimes?
AJ: It's well known I ride the boys hard. I get down on myself if I don't reach my levels and I get down of them if they don't. I do understand blokes can't be that skilful. Hages [coach Michael Hagan] always says, ``They don't see things like you do".
I know there are limits and they know their limits. They all push themselves and it showed in the grand final what levels the players can reach. 
S-H: But do you take it too far? 
AJ: I get down on myself and I get frustrated. I show my emotions and get the shits. It's an area I need to improve. A lot of people see that as a weakness. I've got to control my emotions. I'm no good to anyone if I'm at boiling point. 
S-H: Why do you call yourself ``people's champ three". Is it a matter of pride to you to be considered highly by the fans? 
AJ: This is simply a joke, a gee-up. It comes from wining the People's Choice award three times. Wendell [Sailor] calls himself International Del. I'm just having a giggle. I'm not taking the piss out of the awards. Really, I'm taking the piss out of myself. All the players talk themselves up. I'm honoured that the public has supported me in this way. 
S-H: What happened the night with Ben Kennedy? 
AJ: BK and I had a verbal disagreement about football. Unfortunately, other people were around. In hindsight, we should have discussed the matter in a private environment. BK and I remain the best of friends and we have mutual respect for each other both professionally and personally. Any disagreement has been forgotten. What people don't know is that Ben and I had breakfast together next morning. Straight away there were stupid, hurtful rumours going around. I knew the stuff would be around. 
S-H: The reason for the interest is that clubs can self-destruct after premiership wins because of the individuals involved. Look at Penrith after they won their first comp. 
AJ: I know, I know. Look, everything has been forgotten and I don't want to keep going over the stuff. 
S-H: Are you a big head? Do you rub people the wrong way sometimes? 
AJ: I'm not sure what you mean by big head. Sometimes, in the company of people I don't know, I tend to be shy. Maybe people misconstrue this as being arrogant. I never intentionally set out to rub people the wrong way. If I enter a room full of strangers I wouldn't say I am terrified but I'm withdrawn. Around my mates I'm not shy. I just put my shutters down. I don't trust many people and my mates are my comfort zone. 
S-H: How do you handle being the most famous man in a small town, where even pub arguments become back-page news? 
AJ: I don't see myself in that light. The game and the Knights attract a lot of attention in Newcastle and as a result your privacy is often invaded. Away from the game, I enjoy doing the simple things in life, with my family and friends. The media, not me, decides what goes on back pages and often what's reported, and not only concerning me, is blown out of proportion, the incident with BK being a prime example. 
S-H: Do you accept that sometimes you do behave badly and perhaps you need to look at changes? 
AJ: Like plenty of other people, my judgment hasn't always been perfect. I'm often described as being a bit of a larrikin. If that's the worst people can say of me I can happily live with that. I'm always trying to improve my act and I believe I'm making good progress. 
S-H: What about the night Kevin Walters and Mal Meninga tried to give you some advice about off-field conduct? We know they thought you weren't in any condition to be out in public. Was their attitude disrespectful? 
AJ: What is often reported is not always correct. Kevvie and Mal were having a night out on the town themselves when I bumped into them. That's not always the best time to have a deep discussion or to give advice. That Mal has been in my corner in recent times would indicate that we have respect for each other. 
S-H: Do you have a problem with excessive partying? 
AJ: I am a happy person and I have a good time. That's part of my character. It's got nothing to do with who you are or what you do. In the past I've stayed longer at places than I should have. I'm learning when enough is enough and I have not managed that in the past. I'm conscious of it now. There are times when I wish I didn't have to care because I like my mates and good times. I can't be like that and I have to be responsible. 
S-H: Do you feel you ever go too far on the drink? 
AJ: That's a question you could ask of anyone, including journalists, all sorts of people I suppose. Sometimes we all exceed the limit and we pay the price for it the next morning. When I go too far I know all about it. It's all about managing it. I love a few beers but I'm at the stage now where I'm nearly scared to go out and have fun. The way I like to live shows on the field. I play without a safety harness but I can't live like that now. 
S-H: There were stories from the 2000 World Cup tour that you had a major falling-out with Gorden Tallis. 
AJ: Gordie and I have never had a falling-out, during the World Cup or at any other time. Gordie strongly supported me publicly in relation to the BK incident, which is a good sign of our friendship. Another media myth knocked on the head. 
S-H: Before the grand final last year your wife went public to talk about the strength of your marriage. Why was it necessary?
AJ: My wife was only doing what any wife would do, and that was to support her husband. The rumours that were flying around were all wrong and they also hurt my wife as well. That's why she spoke out. 
S-H: Do your parents ever talk to you about the bad things reported about you? Do they still try to guide you and give advice in the hard times? 
AJ: Most of the things written about me are positive. When some of the rough stories appear, Mum and Dad are always there. I always listen to their advice. Sometimes it gets a bit much and I feel for them. It's bad when Mum will come up to me and say, ``Andrew, is this true?" They know it's almost always wrong because they brought us up well. Still, they have to put up with things that are just ridiculous. 
S-H: Would you like a child of yours to play football? 
AJ: If that's his wish, he'll have Renae's and my support. If he wants to be a concert pianist, our support will be there as well. Growing up, that may be tough for him. Aaron Raper [son of legend John Raper] had some hard times. 
S-H: When your contract finishes, is rugby union an option? Or what about a different league club? 
AJ: It's too early to think about what's next. A body test in 2004, when I'm off contract with the Knights, will determine what I do next. Rugby union is an option but so is a continuation with the Knights, maybe another NRL club or even a stint overseas. 
I've already achieved all I want to achieve. It's up to my body to keep me going because my mind will always want to go again. I won't lie I enjoy watching rugby. League and union are that close but to switch would be a massive gamble. My main concern is that those rugby shorts make my arse look too big! 
S-H: There was even talk of you playing in an NSL match. Is there any chance of your teaming up with Newcastle United? 
AJ: I love watching soccer and I'm a big fan of Newcastle United, whose owner Con Constantine is a good friend. I have jokingly told him I might play 20 minutes off the bench one day. 
S-H: What will you do when you finish playing? 
AJ: Nothing's set in concrete. Maybe switch to cricket if the Australian team is looking for an attacking No6 who can't bat, bowl or field! 
S-H: Does a future without competitive footy scare you? 
AJ: I'm a little bit scared. It's all I know. It's a big thing. Life after footy is another challenge. A lot of guys are doing uni courses or TAFE. If I get a bookmakers job, I'd go broke. I don't live too extravagantly. I like to have a bet and we have Renae's shopping sprees. I even get my surfboards free. It's funny, the more famous you get the less you have to spend. 
I suppose I'd like to do some more travel. I've seen that blokes like Laurie Daley, Ricky Stuart and Paul Harragon have moved on to different pastures without difficulty and with great success. I hope to do the same. 

BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE: ANDREW JOHNS ON ... 
DRUGS IN LEAGUE 
There are always rumours about drugs. There are systems in place to weed out those who take illegal substances and the NRL has taken action where appropriate. I have heard the rumours, but that's all they are rumours. All I can do is point to my unblemished record. 
INDIVIDUALITY 
I am what I am. As you get older, you take on a more responsible role. I am no different from lots of other people. I don't try to be different. In a way I'd love to be boring. Sometimes I get in hot water because of my personality but I think if I tried to be someone else I'd get in more trouble. People have to remember this is a game and it's all bit of fun. 
HIS CHILDHOOD 
I had a very happy childhood. I come from a terrific family that has always given unqualified support. I grew up playing footy in the winter and cricket in the summer. We didn't have too much money, but we were never wanting. I always thought I'd play footy as a kid and then work in the mines. That's what Dad did and what his dad did. I thought that until I went down a mine and when I was 3km underground I thought `I'd better be good at footy'. 
BEING A DAD 
I enjoy fatherhood and our little bloke Samuel is a treat. Some say he's a chip off the old block. He's always a high priority away from football. With Renae at work most days, I get to look after Samuel, which is something I look forward to. I wouldn't say I'm a genius at the housework, but I contribute. Samuel brings me most joy in my life. Ask any parent. I've got a great job. I get all arvo with my son and I get to go to the baths with him, you know, kids' stuff. That's my down time. 
HIS PERSONALITY 
People look at me as extroverted, super confident, but I can be terrified to go places where people are just staring at me. I struggle and I've got to realise they are probably happy to see me. I know it blows me away to meet someone famous. 
HAPPINESS 
I am happiest when I see other people happy. In the past year, winning the grand final and an Ashes series was right up near the top of my happy list. Happiness is backing a winner, surfing with my mates and spending time with the family. 
PRESSURE 
Pressure is always there but if you've put in the hard work you're going to back yourself and the team will as well. There is a heavy obligation to perform to your highest level. 
MOTIVATION 
The biggest motivation is enjoying the game, which has been a major part of my life. I love competing against, and playing with, great players. To be compensated financially for something you love is a bonus but not the driving factor. 

Andrew Johns favourite grounds -  the Sunday telegraph, 
Win stadium -  haven't played there for four years but love the place.  The crowd is so close and in all the time I have played at WIN going back to my junior days with the Knights.  I have lost only once.
Energy Australian Stadium 
No surprises here given the history of the place and the support we generate at home.  Two games stick out for me - our 42-0 win over Canterbury in 1995 mid season before they went on to win the premiership, and last years 44 - 0 win over Brisbane, my comeback game from injury when I still had alot of self doubts about my knee.
Lang park
It is the atmosphere which sets this ground apart.  You can smell and feel the hatred all around you and no ground gets the adranalin pumping more - I love it.

Aussie Stadium
Before last years grand final win, the SFS, as it was known was the scene of our greatest triumph in '97.  We have a great record there and it is almost like a home away from home for all the Knights boys.

Wembley Stadium
We won the 1995 World cup final there in front of 80,000 fans - unbelievable.  Taking the walk up into the grandstand and seeing the footprints on the stairs as you go up.  i remember thinking absolute legends like George Best had taken this same walk.  It had the hairs on the back of the neck standing up.

Least favourite grounds
Campbelltown stadium
Never liked it and there is this old lady who sits in the same place every time I have been there who just gives it to me when I am kicking for goal, Yelling out stuff like 'hairy legs' and 'bucket arse'.

Canberra stadium
Never been my favourite place and not just because of the pollies.  Not sure I have evern been down there on a decent day when it hasn't been freezing.  The surface is always slippery.

ANZ Stadium
Never been in a wimming side there, so that doesn't help.  But its a ground lacking in atmosphere and character because the crowd is so far away from the action.

McAlpine Stadium, Hudderfield.
Played there five times for one win and that was against the kiwi's in the 1995 World cup semi final.  Not sure if the joint has ever seen the sun and it is always blowing a gale.

Inside Joeys world
Australian captaincy - "It would be a greatest honour of my life, but I am not going to pretend I am Richie Cunningham who has never been in trouble.  I am who I am and that is not going to change.  I honestly believe I could do a good job, but If they gave it to me, I would still be my own man."
State of origin - "Every year NSW have the best side on paper, but Queensland seems to come out with more passion and more aggression and get us.  It is a big  year with Freddy not there, but Phil Gould is back and I love the way he coaches at that level. Defending the premiership - "Winning last season seems to have takeen the pressure off and all the boys have a lot more confidence in their ability.  Personally I think I understand the responsibilities I have a lot more after last seasons experiences."

Knights leader reopens debate - 26 March, 2002
It was knights captain Andrew Johns who lead the public cry for an upgrade of the Energy Australia Stadium.  The call came after the Knights premiership triumph last year.  The champion half back publicly declared that it was time the twice victorious Knights team had better home facilities for both players and visitors.  His comments reignited the debate on the urgent need to upgrade the then Marathon stadium and immediately struck a chord with Hunter valley sporting fans.  the football hero against raised the issue less then a fortnight ago when he met children's television phenomenon Bob the builder.  Bob the builder will be in Newcastle for a series of shows.  "I had a chat to Bob and if we can get the $40 million he reckons he can knock it up in under a year.  The people out ther especially the politicians can now see we have some good tradesman here.  We deserve a grandstand here so fingers crossed it will happen."  Johns said.

Brilliant Johns puts the frighteners on wounded Warriors -  April 2 2002 
Andrew Johns plays better when he is roughed up by the opposition, according to his coach. Michael Hagan admitted his hypothesis was "frightening". "Frightening" and "ugly" - they were the words of the day at Ericsson Stadium as Newcastle accounted for the Warriors with remarkable ease to remain undefeated in their premiership defence. The form of Johns, who scored three tries with instinct and sheer strength from close range, was "frightening". Hagan said of Johns: "He continues to defy belief in terms of how well he plays. Everyone knows he's dangerous from 10 yards out and he still continues to score from close range, still kicks goals and makes it look easy. "And he also copped a bit of a knock. In those circumstances, it was another outstanding performance by him." Johns appeared disoriented and fell to the ground while trying to regain his feet after an attempted tackle on the Warriors' Brent Webb in the 50th minute. "He's done that before and seems to play better, which is a bit frightening," Hagan said. Johns responded: "I don't know about that. He might have to give me [a whack] before I go out if that's the case." 
The Knights run of three big wins contrasts sharply with their pre-season form, when they could not get a victory from three games. Johns explained that fact away, saying: "I've got a racehorse that wins every trial going around but still can't win on Saturday." 

Joey near elite mark -  6 April 2002,  Newcastle Herald.
There seems to be no stopping Andrew Johns.  Newcastle peerless playmaker is poised to pass another pointscoring milestole and, given the way he has started the season, it could happen at Energy Australia stadium against Canberra tomorrow. Johns is 16 points away from becoming the eigth player in premiership history to score 1500 points after his 20 point bag against the Warriors last Monday. And that is exactly how many he has averaged in the first three games of the season, rocketing to 48 points to be the NRL's leading scorer.  Most points in a season is one of the few individual honours to have eluded Johns so far.  He went close last year when his haul of 279 points was the equal third highest single season tally in premiership history.  That was despite missing eight games through injury or suspension.  Johns averages 13.3 points a game last year. - the highest points per game.

The drop on the Knights success - they're on the punt  April 21, 2002, sun herald
Newcastle captain and  halfback Andrew Johns says the pattern of the Knights play this season has changed dramatically as his teammates demand more and more of his freakish kicks. For several seasons Johns has been executing banana kicks like the one that resulted in Billy Pedan's try against the Sharks on Friday night.  Usually Johns was thinking ahead of his teammates, but the pleasing factor of him on Friday was that Pedan called the play.  "In most cases they are making the calls rather me dictating the play.  Everyone is on the same wavelenght and the communication is there.  The try that Billy Pedan scored - he called for the kick and it was great vision on his part."
John Morris also crossed, on the right edge, after Johns put a high kick across field that the young winger was able to gather in.  That kick was typical of John's amazing skill.  He was running to the left side of the field but kicked the ball off the right side of his right boot and it arrived at Morris's wing with pinpoint accuracy.  Johns developed his kicking game and his love of experimentation five years ago after former coach malcolm Reilly became worried about faults his halfback was developing with his punting kicking.  reilly brought English kicking coach and former gridiron player David Aldred to Australia.  Aldred held several clinics in Sydney and Andrew and his brother Matthew were among a bus load of Knights players who attended.  That was how Andrew developed his famous banana kick.  His kick offs are now shorter and higher.  "It is something he developed while experimenting at training." coach Michael Hagan said. "The ball hangs longer in the air and allows our players more time to come through."  Hagan said he had never seen a player with a better and more varied kicking game than Johns.  "his kicking adds a new dimension to our attack and makes it very hard to defend against."

Johns wins over doubters for a new lease of half life -  SMH,  May 14 2002
Following his appointment as NSW Origin skipper, Andrew Johns yesterday was asked whether he had finally won acceptance for who he is.  The question related to concerns among officialdom about the suitability of the free-spirited Johns captaining a side at representative level, but it might just as easily have been referring to the end of the great halfback-hooker debate.  For the first time since he made his State of Origin debut seven years ago, Johns has been selected in his rightful position and there is no danger of the player universally acknowledged as the world's best having to accommodate another halfback in the Blues side.
In 15 appearances for NSW, Johns has had to share the playmaking duties with the likes of Geoff Toovey and Brett Kimmorley on all but two occasions - the opening two games of the losing 19995 series, when only players loyal to the Australian Rugby League were considered for selection.  Since then he's either played hooker - in name, if not always number - or been used as a supersub from the interchange bench, often with great reluctance. ''I'd play any position to play at this level," Johns said. ''But I think hooker really dulled my attacking flair.
''I see myself as a halfback but probably in 1995, when I got the opportunity, I don't know if I was ready. I was thrust in before it was my time [because of the Super League war].  ''But for whatever reason I haven't played halfback for the last three or four years, I've played hooker at this level - or off the bench - which sort of burns deep. I always wanted to get a crack at halfback again."
Now that he has the No7 jersey on his back as well as the small (c) next to his name, Johns says he intends to dominate at Origin level in a way similar to Queensland's Wally Lewis during the 1980s.  Even Blues coach Phil Gould believes that is a lofty goal, but after missing last year's series because of a knee injury, Johns said: ''I just want to make up for lost time and really play well at halfback.  ''This is probably the last frontier for me. I've probably dominated at club level and won grand finals, but it's been hanging over my head that I haven't done well at Origin level. It's been a big goal of mine to captain in Origin and really dominate, and I've got the opportunity now."
So, the question remains, does Johns feel he has won over those officials who had held doubts about his captaincy credentials? ''It's a big job and I feel privileged to be given the opportunity," Johns said.  ''[But] at the end of the day I'm still my own person and they've picked me for who I am and the way I play."

Johns bows to King Wally - Sports Watch, 14 May 2002 
Wally Lewis was State of Origin in the 1980s. Andrew Johns wants to be the same over the next five years. 
The Newcastle halfback, who was named as NSW captain last night, has long worn the tag of the world's best footballer after dominating rugby league at both club and Test level.  But he hasn't been able to stamp his authority in the State of Origin arena since making his debut for the Blues in 1995 because of injury and being forced to play out of position at hooker.  This year Johns - who turns 28 three days before the opening Origin encounter at Stadium Australia on May 22 - will play in his favoured No.7 jersey and will skipper the Blues for the first time. Johns believes he's ready to showcase his full array of skills at Origin level and hold the same influence as Lewis did for Queensland during the King's illustrious career.  "It's probably the last frontier for me," the Newcastle captain said after the NSW team medicals in Sydney.  "I've dominated at club level and won grand finals but it's hanging over my head personally, and from certain critics, that I haven't dominated at Origin level.  "A big goal of mine was to captain the Origin and really dominate so I've got the opportunity now."
The omission of Test incumbent Matthew Gidley caused a stir when the NSW team was announced on Sunday but Johns, who had pleaded with selectors to include his Knights teammate in the 17-man squad, was diplomatic.  "I suppose yesterday I was club captain of the Knights and today I'm captain of the Origin," Johns said on Monday. "I'll put my support behind the guys they've picked but I still think Matthew Gidley is a world class centre. "But unfortunately he hasn't been picked and he'll come back from this a bigger and better player."

Johns to lead Blues – Sportal, 15 May 2002
New South Wales selectors have named Andrew Johns as captain and will take six debutants into the opening State of Origin game at Stadium Australia on May 22. Johns will take over from Brad Fittler as captain of the Blues for the first time, while selectors have taken the Queensland road from last series by selecting a host of rookies. Ten of the players selected have come from the 2001 Grand finalists Parramatta (five) and Newcastle (five). 

Joey's Origin challenge - SMH, 18 May 2002
NSW skipper Andrew Johns is so strong in his will to dominate State-of-Origin he has forwarded his game plan to Queensland.  His message: Try and stop me. Johns has revealed his game plan to The Daily Telegraph, a simple and effective strategy similar to theone he used to dismantle Parramatta in last year's Grand Final.  Johns is riding a wave of confidence, one reinforced by his reluctance to hide his plans for Queensland in Wednesday's Origin clash at Stadium Australia. "This is the year I've got to dominate," Johns said yesterday. "It's the only level I haven't put my touch on. I've been given the chance to play halfback so I've just got to go out there and do it."
Johns said NSW coach Phil Gould had not spoken to him about his influence in this year's series and doubts that he will.
"He knows I know," Johns said. Simple as that.  Johns said he would play a simple game plan designed to layer the pressure on Queensland and their large pack.  The Maroons have picked a monster pack – including three frontrowers – in a bid to over-run the smaller NSW forwards. Looking over the Queensland selections, Johns has formulated a plan he believes will suit the Blues and enhance their chances of taking out Origin I.  "When David Waite used to coach me, when I was really young, he used to say 'ride them hands and heels'," Johns said.  "Hang back the first 20 minutes."
While Johns will not get physical early, he said he would use the opening exchange to set up the rest of the game for the Blues, much the way he did for the Knights in last year's Grand Final against Parramatta. "The Grand Final last year, leading up to it and talking to (coach Michael Hagan) Hages about my role, he said 'all you've got to do is play your role as best you can'," he said. "So a lot of my energy went into making sure our fifth-play pressure was as best as it could be. Making sure every time the fullback picked the ball up he was picking it up on his tryline."  The Knights used the start of the game to set up the win at the end of it, with a spectacular assault that led to a 26-0 halftime lead.  While there has been no suggestion a similar score will repeat itself, the message is clear.
Johns's confident stance has drawn fire north of the border, where Maroons skipper Gorden Tallis entered the fray, as only he knows how, with a blunt attack on Johns.  Tallis claimed at Thursday's opening day in camp that Johns would never be another Wally Lewis.  In fairness to Johns, though, he never made such a claim, just one that to be considered among the greats he realises he must dominate at State-of-Origin level like Lewis did.  Given the Blues can get a better than even share during the opening 15-20 minutes, Johns will then expand into the role that sees him threaten Lewis as the most dominant player of the Origin era.  "I need to play the way I do at Newcastle," he said.  "Play without fear of making a mistake. If I go out there and play, everyone will support me.  "So just get out there and play, get my hands on the ball as much as possible."
Gould sees his job as basically one of not complicating Johns. He has put a support system around Johns that will enable him to play the game as he sees it in front of him – much like he does at the Knights.