Johns to be Newcastle saviour

Legendary Newcastle halfback Andrew Johns has come in to assist struggling Knights boss Brian Smith.

The former test captain assisted Smith at training yesterday as the team prepared for a do-or-die clash against Melbourne on Monday.

Smith has already been named as Brad Fittler’s replacement at the Sydney Roosters in 2010, but is in danger of missing out on the finals series if his side suffer defeat against the Storm.

Johns, who won premierships with the Knights in 1997 and 2001, helped with coaching duties and spent time with playmaker Jarrod Mullen.
“The players were positive and upbeat,” Johns told

The Daily Telegraph. “They’ll be up for the game. They won’t have any excuses.

“Everyone recognises how big a game it is for the club. But from what I saw, there is nothing to suggest the Knights can’t win.”