Michael Maguire reveals his plan to keep Alex Johnston at Redfern

MICHAEL Maguire has revealed he has a plan to keep Alex Johnston at Redfern in a warning to the posse of cashed-up rivals attempting to poach the 95kg flyer.

Rabbit-oh's Alex Johnston during the round 4 NRL game between the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Sydney Roosters at ANZ Stadium. Picture: Gregg Porteous

SOUTH Sydney coach Michael Maguire has revealed he has a plan to keep Alex Johnston at Redfern in a warning to the posse of cashed-up rivals attempting to poach the 95kg flyer.

It’s a move that could have significant ramifications for Greg Inglis after Johnston declared his desire to play fullback.

“I have had conversation with him (about his position) that I will keep private,’’ Maguire said.

“But he is well aware of what we are building towards here and he buys into that. We certainly have a plan and he is very positive about it.’’

Johnston scored a blistering solo try against the Bulldogs.

Fresh from scoring a scintillating 45-metre try in Friday’s loss try to the Bulldogs that showcased his value as a middle-roaming fullback, Johnston admitted he could be tempting by rivals offering him a fulltime spot at the back.

The Bulldogs are among a host of clubs interested in luring the off-contract 22-year-old away from Redfern.

“I grew up playing fullback and each week I am getting more comfortable there,’’ Johnston said.

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“I love getting my hands on the ball more and having the freedom to create plays. I am focused on trying to improve myself in the fullback position and proving to myself and other clubs that I can play that position.’’

Souths’ hope of retaining Johnston will be improved should they offer the young gun the No. 1 jersey in a move that would see injured fullback Inglis shifted into the frontline.

Inglis plays centre for Queensland and has also stared at No. 6 for the Rabbitohs.

Maguire said he was deep in negotiations with Johnston and remained hopeful of striking a new deal.

Johnston has replaced Greg Inglis at fullback.

“Alex is a South Sydney kid,’’ Maguire said. “He has come right through the grades here. I have been fortunate to spend quite a bit of time with him over the last six years. We definitely want to keep him here and those things are progressing in the background.’’

Johnston said his future would not be resolved until the end of the year.

Johnston said he was hopeful of staying at the club that has turned him into an emerging star.

“Souths have got me to where I am today,’’ Johnston said.

‘I will leave that to my manager to sort out. I think it will be put of to the end of the season so I can concentrate on playing good football.’’