Matthew Johns is a former five-eighth with bags of talent who made his name playing for the Newcastle Knights, before eventually going on to represent both state and country. Known by most people these days through his media work, Matthew Johns has carved out one of the most successful media careers of ex-Rugby League players working in television or radio today.
Johns made his debut in 1992, and alongside his brother Andrew, would form one of the most electric halves combinations the game has seen. The pair would steer the Newcastle Knights to success in the 1990s, including a Grand Final win in 1997. Matthew Johns also represented New South Wales at State of Origin level 4 times and played for Australia 8 times during his time at Newcastle. After leaving the Knights to play for Wigan in the English Super League in 2001, Johns then returned home to play the final year of his career with the Cronulla Sharks in 2002.
Shortly after retiring, Johns would move straight into the media, starring on the NRL footy show and providing expert commentary during games. Possessing a sharp Rugby League mind like his younger brother, Matthew Johns has regularly been sought after by NRL coaches and players for coaching expertise. The most notable being Craig Bellamy and the Melbourne Storm, who regularly send their halves to Johns for one on one training. A toast to his footy brain and mentoring skills, those close to the Storm credit Johns for the development of superstar Cooper Cronk’s game.
Johns is now the host of his own television show on Fox Sports as well as one of the voices on Triple M breakfast show the Grill Team. Constantly providing great insight as well as much needed humour in the game, Matthew Johns has established himself as one of the most likable figures in the Rugby League media.
