'Hasn't ruled it out': Shaun Johnson weighing up retirement backflip amid Kiwis injury crisis
Shaun Johnson has only been retired for less than a month, but the superstar halfback could already be on his way back to a rugby league field.
The 34-year-old hung up the boots at the end of this season with the Warriors, ending a legendary career in the sport that spanned well over a decade.
However, the fleet-footed playmaker could be in line for a shock call-up to the Kiwis due to an injury crisis in the halves.
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Dylan Brown and Kieran Foran are both sidelined for the Pacific Championships, while rugby-bound star Joey Manu will also be unavailable as his code switch begins.
In a radio interview with Newstalk ZB, head coach Stacey Jones revealed he has already spoken to Johnson and one last hurrah in the New Zealand kit is on the table.
Shaun Johnson could come out of retirement in the Pacific Championships. Hannah Peters via Getty Images
"I have spoken to Shaun," he said.
"I said if we get more injuries would you consider?
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"I haven't ruled it out, he hasn't ruled it out. I know where Shaun is at and I'm not going to put a huge amount of pressure on him.
"I have just told Shaun, I know where you are at and I know where you sit in my mind."
Johnson has played 32 games for the Kiwis, featuring in multiple World Cups.
The squad won't be selected until after the NRL grand final, with Jahrome Hughes expected to wear the No.7 jumper for the tournament.
