DEAL FINALLY DONE: NRL IMMORTAL ANDREW JOHNS JOINS PARRAMATTA EELS IN TRIPLE ROLE
Rumours put to rest as rugby league legend confirms appointment as analyst, coaching consultant and sports advisor
PARRAMATTA — The wait is over for Parramatta Eels fans as the club has officially confirmed the signing of NRL Immortal Andrew Johns in a groundbreaking triple role, ending weeks of speculation that had gripped the rugby league world.
Johns will join the Eels ahead of the upcoming season to serve as a television analyst for the club’s official broadcast partners, a part-time coaching consultant working closely with the first-grade playmakers, and a member of the club’s Sports Advisory Board. The announcement marks a major coup for the western Sydney outfit as they look to strengthen their off-field expertise and on-field performance.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Andrew to the Parramatta Eels family,” said the club’s CEO in a press conference. “His knowledge, experience and passion for the game are second to none, and we know he’ll bring immense value to our players, coaching staff and broader organisation.”
Widely regarded as one of the greatest playmakers in rugby league history, Johns carved out his legendary career with the Newcastle Knights, playing 249 NRL games and leading the club to two premierships in 1997 and 2001. His list of accolades is unparalleled: three Dally M Player of the Year awards, multiple Golden Boot honours as the world’s best player, and induction as the eighth Immortal of the game — rugby league’s highest individual honour.
Renowned for his revolutionary kicking game, pinpoint passing and unmatched ability to control matches, Johns transformed the halfback position and remains the benchmark against which modern playmakers are judged. His arrival at Parramatta is set to provide a significant boost to the club’s young spine, with emerging halfbacks and five-eighths set to benefit directly from his coaching insight.
The confirmation puts an end to widespread rumours that had linked Johns to several NRL clubs in recent months. For the Eels, the signing represents a statement of intent as they aim to build on their recent success and challenge for a premiership. For Johns, it marks a new chapter in his post-playing career, expanding his already diverse portfolio of roles in the sport.
As the club prepares for the season ahead, the addition of rugby league’s most iconic figure promises to bring fresh energy and expertise to Parramatta’s pursuit of glory.
