Johnson itching to go

They're sick of all the running. They're weary from the climbs. They're tired of the pre-season - but luckily for Shaun Johnson, the NRL's return is nigh.

February is the month of trials for the Warriors before they meet their 2011 Grand Final foes, the Manly Sea Eagles, at Eden Park on February 28.

But before the hype and the selection issues around the opening first-grade match of the season, Johnson and the Warriors are readying themselves for their first trial match against the Gold Coast Titans on Saturday.

It might not have as much meaning as a full-blooded first-grade match - games this early are merely seen as experimental matches - but Johnson and the team are buzzing nonetheless.

"I can't wait to play. I know I can speak on behalf of all these boys - we're over all the running and the hard hills and all that sort of thing. We just want to play."

It's not just a chance for the cobwebs to be well and truly dusted off. For Johnson, in particular, the trials are a chance to link up with Nathan Friend and begin to form a solid combination looking into the year ahead.

"He's a very hard worker - a very, very hard worker - he's all ears and communicates pretty well."

Then of course there's the guidance given to him by one of the legends of the game, Andrew Johns, a man Johnson thanks for helping him understand plays and why they're important.

"It's pretty crazy listening to him 'cause he's pretty smart. You don't actually think league players are pretty brainy, then you listen to him and there's more to running and passing."

Members of the public are welcome to attend the trial match between the Warriors and the Gold Coast Titans at North Harbour Stadium on Saturday, with many of the grand finalists featuring in the 25-strong squad. The match kicks off at 6pm.