Warriors star Shaun Johnson has put to bed months of speculation surrounding his future, after signing a new one-year deal to stay in New Zealand.
There was chatter Johnson may retire at the end of the 2023 season, but the 33-year-old has decided to go around again in 2024.
There was interest from the Wests Tigers, who reportedly offered Johnson a two-year, $1.3 million deal, but the playmaker decided to stay home.
The Johnson news has taken yet another playmaker off an already scarce market for those looking for halfbacks next season.
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The Warriors confirmed the news in a Thursday afternoon press release.
“We’ve had ongoing conversations with Shaun about his plans beyond this season,” said Warriors general manager recruitment, pathways and development Andrew McFadden.
“The priority for both of us was to let Shaun play, to enjoy his football and to enjoy being back home with his family.
“There was no rush to make a decision but we’re absolutely delighted to have him with us for another season at the club that means everything to him.”
“The way Shaun has gone about his football on and off the field this season has been phenomenal,” Warriors head coach Andrew Webster.
Johnson has arguably been in career-best form this season, leading the Warriors to ten wins, good for sixth on the ladder as of the beginning of Round 20.
He is fifth in the league for try assists (17), fifth for points scored (136) and seventh for line break assists (15).
