The test for Johns (From Warrington Guardian)

The test for Johns

ANDREW Johns has admitted to being nervous about the prospect of meeting his new teammates when he arrives in Warrington on September 6.

Johns, who is the only player in the history of the game to have been voted the world's best player on two separate occasions, has done virtually everything there is to do in rugby league, yet a switch of clubs will be unfamiliar to him.

The 31-year-old scrum half has spent the whole of his club career with NRL outfit Newcastle Knights so a move to England to play for a different team presents a scenario he has not faced before.

He said: "It's a big challenge for me because I've been at Newcastle since I was 14, so I'm a bit nervous about going over there into a different environment with new players and a new coach.

"But I'm really looking forward to it. It's a whole new challenge and I'm excited about the prospect of getting to train with the new guys and learning the different moves and calls, and then ultimately getting on the field and playing that first game against Leeds.

"My goal is to fit in with the side, get to know all the guys and play every game to the best of my ability."

The amiable Australian Test star's arrival will create one situation that he is a little uneasy about.

One player will have to make way for him in the team, with current scrum half Nathan Wood being one of the candidates.

Johns knows Wood from his NRL days and has been tracking his progress on television. The two have already spoken about the issue and Johns hopes to fully resolve it with the squad when he gets to Warrington.

Johns said: "I suppose the thing with me coming in is that someone is going to lose their position and I'm not really comfortable about that, but it's something which I've got to work out with the players there.

"I know Nathan Wood, as well as knowing Chris Leikvoll, Danny Lima, Logan Swann, Martin Gleeson and Brent Grose to say hello to.

"I understand Nathan's been great this year and he's been sensational in the games I've seen him play in the last couple of years, so it's something that's got to be handled in the right way."

Wolves anticipate that the current playing staff will benefit greatly from playing and training with Johns, and the younger players in particular could be in for a treat.

The Cessnock-born half back passes on tips to youngsters whenever he can, and he intends to continue that when he joins Wolves.

"I was talking to Paul Cullen about the young players, and he says that they've got some outstanding kids coming through," said Johns, who will play for Newcastle on Sunday despite turning an ankle in their last game.

"I enjoy the role of helping the young guys at Newcastle, and after every session I generally grab them and we do extras and some extra kicking, and pick each other's brains.

"If anyone wants to know anything I'll definitely pass on whatever I've been taught in Australia."