It's time for warriors to move on while Shaun Johnson calls for immediate release

OPINION: If Shaun Johnson actually wants an immediate release of the Warriors, as indicated, it may be better for the club to limit its losses and move on.

Of course, they have every right to dig, given that he is under contract for the 2019 season, with options to replace a playmaker of his very limited caliber, given that the training of pre-season is already underway.

But keeping a player who does not want to be there carries a significant element of risk, especially that of Johnson.

The talented but erratic halfback is a professional and that does not mean that he would not give everything to the club.

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But what kind of message does it send to the rest of the team when one of the most important players in the team is so quick to look for the exit after learning that a Contract extension is not the formality that it once was, rather than fighting to prove its value? .

Then there are the fallout of the fans. Johnson is already a polarizing figure among the Warriors' loyalists, but even his most ardent followers should admit that he has not respected his current monster payday.

And although his disappointment with the Warriors is somewhat understandable, after being publicly questioned about his worth while he was playing for his country on the other side of the world, the He announces that he wants an immediate release not suitable for the 28 year old.

However, the club does not come out perfectly either.

After the Warriors publicly announced their reluctance to offer a new deal to their screener last month, the situation has gone rather badly.

Chief Executive Officer Cameron George made an admirable gesture in instilling responsibility for Mt Smart and raising standards at all levels. But it has also created a storm that probably could have been avoided and could significantly disrupt preparations for next year.

The decision to let Johnson leave earlier might have been a little easier if the Warriors had not let Mason Lino join the Knights.

Yet, while Lino is gone, their reserve in the half is limited to a fortune option, such as Peta Hiku, or to rookies such as Chanel Harris-Tevita, Hayze Perham or the recent Adam Keighran.

Thus, although the Cronulla Sharks may be the first favorites to obtain Johnson's services, any chance of obtaining an early release from the Warriors may depend on a player's exchange, even if it is not possible. It is only a short-term solution while waiting for long periods. short-term plans to materialize.

This could lead to other clubs playing, such as the Eels, who would have shopped around the Corey Norman and Mitchell Moses halves.

Tigers half Luke Brooks is also out of contract in 2019, which could open the door to an agreement between the clubs and allow Johnson to get closer to Kiwi coach Michael Maguire.

Te Mayor Martin, whom the Warriors showed interest in last year before signing Blake Green, is in a similar position with the Cowboys.

But in calling for the release of his contract, Johnson put the ball back in the Warriors' camp. We are now waiting for their answer.