Warriors halfback Shaun Johnson has backed out-of-favour utility Tui Lolohea to find his way back into the side after not being named for this weekends’ clash against the Sydney Roosters.
The 22-year old has been left out in favour of rookie Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, who has been the star player for the Warriors reserve grade squad, replacing Solomone Kata, who has a hamstring injury.
After another selection snub, Lolohea’s future at the club is up in the air with five Australian sides reportedly chasing his signature including the Canberra Raiders and the Ivan Cleary coached Wests Tigers.
Despite not featuring, Johnson wants the one-Test Kiwi to stay at the club, but admitted he needs to work on a number of skills if he wants to become a regular first grader.
"Everybody knows what Tui can do. He knows that he's got a lot of work to do to warrant selection every week in first grade," said Johnson.
"There's no doubting his ability and the impact he can have on a football team so I'm sure we'll see him playing first grade soon."
Lolohea is known for his ability to play every backline position, which at times has been to his benefit, but Johnson believes that has been Lolohea’s downfall.
"That's the thing with Tui, it's a good and bad thing with being so versatile."
"I think he could be a really good fullback, the way he can chime into the line and ball-play and his footwork and speed.
"He's got a bit of work to do there again, but fullback could really be something he could cement himself as and commit to.”
Despite not picking Lolohea, coach Stephen Kearney has defended the selection of Nicoll-Klokstad, saying that the 21-year old deserves a chance to showcase his talents in the top side.
"He's (Lolohea) well aware of the situation," said Kearney.
"I've said right from the start I'll be rewarding performance and that's why Charnze is making his debut this week.”
"He has been the most consistent player for the Intertrust Super Premiership (ISP) team who have not lost a game this year.
"He trained really well in the off-season and during the last six to eight weeks, (so) that's why he gets an opportunity.
"I'm sure Tui will bounce back and get an opportunity in the not too distant future."
Johnson, who re-signed with the Warriors for two more seasons, is looking forward to playing with Nicoll-Klokstad this weekend against the Roosters.
"I’ve worked with Charnze for the last year or two now," said Johnson.
"Haven't played with him (yet), but I've seen his work ethic and if that's anything to go off, he's a pretty special kid.
"To be so driven, to see the work he puts in, I’m so stoked he gets the chance to play in front of his friends and family this week at the highest level.
"It’s a childhood dream and I’m looking forward to playing with him."
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