Andrew Johns is coming home to Newcastle with the Knights’ greatest player to return as a coaching consultant.

In news that will soften the blow of Mitchell Pearce’s likely exit to Catalans, Johns will help usher in the Knights’ next halves combination.

The rugby league Immortal is expected to work with the club up to two days a week in the newly created role on Adam O’Brien’s staff.

It comes after Johns was heavily critical of the Knights’ attack late in the 2021 season, as they averaged the second least points of any team in the NRL-era to make the finals.

In turn, Johns’ move will come as a blow to Parramatta and Brad Arthur.

Johns had worked with the Eels as a halves consultant in recent years, playing a big role in the development of Mitch Moses and Dylan Brown.

“Having Andrew join the staff is a significant moment in the history of our club,” Knights chief executive Phil Gardner said.

“His rugby league knowledge is unmatched anywhere in the world and he will be an excellent addition to the team.

“Joey’s return marks the beginning of an incredibly exciting period in our club’s history and we can’t wait to see him get to work.”

Pearce is expected to meet with Newcastle officials over an approach for him to move to the French-based Catalans.

The Knights have Phoenix Crossland and Adam Clune as options to partner Jake Clifford in the halves, but would likely want a proven playmaker to take Pearce’s spot.

Otherwise Pearce’s likely exit could expedite a move to the halves for Kalyn Ponga, in a move that would allow Tex Hoy or Bailey Hodgson to play fullback.

AAP

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