NRL 2020: Shaun Johnson's message to social media trolls after nasty comments on kicking video

Cronulla Sharks and New Zealand international Shaun Johnson is urging people to think about what they say on social media after an array of online abuse.

On Tuesday the Sharks posted a video of Johnson running through his goal-kicking routine, for kids to have a go at home. 

But the entire point of the video was overshadowed by keyboard warriors criticising Johnson's technique and pointing out he isn't the most consistent kicker in the NRL. 

The 29-year-old has dealt with criticism his entire NRL career and has learnt to put up with it, but he was annoyed that what was meant to be something positive turned into something negative.

Johnson spoke candidly with NRL.com and believes so-called fans need to think before they click.

"I never said I'm the best kicker in the world, following exactly what I do, it was simply showing a kid 'this is my routine, have a go at it'," Johnson explained. 

"A lot of people feel it's easier to speak negatively instead of positively. It's easier to slag someone than praise someone. 

"It was disappointing but I wasn't surprised. I've always had that negativity around my game and profile, but I've also had lots of positivity.

"I'm always trying to spread the positive vibe because I don't see the point in putting your energy into something negative.

"I replied [to some of the comments] and I got a reply back saying their comment wasn't meant in that context, so maybe we need to think about how we say things. Social media can be such a brutal place." 

After two games in 2020, Johnson's goal-kicking percentage is at a career-high at 85 percent. His season best is currently at 78 percent, set in 2017. 

The NRL season is currently suspended, but officials are looking at getting a revamped competition up and running by the end of next month.