Johns to join Blues coaching ranks

NSW Blues legend Andrew Johns is being tipped to return to the side as coach Laurie Daley draws up the blueprint to win back the title in next year’s State of Origin.

Rugby league immortal Johns was one of the great players to come through the Blues’ ranks with his retirement from the arena in 2005 sparking years of domination from north of the border.

And now it appears NSW are turning to one of their favourite sons with Fairfax media reporting the former Newcastle Knight will join the coaching ranks for 2017.

“This is all about a change and part of it is Freddy (Brad Fittler) is going to be involved again, (alongside new assistant NSW coach) Johnny Cartwright…" Johns’ brother Matt told Triple M.

"More than just football, they’re looking to lift the morale of the camp."