NRL – Auckland  Warriors halfback Shaun Johnson (pictured) says he’s hopeful he’ll be ready to take his place in the Warriors squad for the Nines in February.

Johnson’s season ending knee injury ruled a line through the Warriors 2015 finals chances but after a comprehensive rehabilitation, he’s hoping the club will clear him for the Nines tournament on February 6.

The Warriors are set to give the NRL premiership a real shake with the recruitment of Isaac Luke and Roger Tuivasa Sheck and while September success is the real focus for Johnson, he’ll be doing his best to convince the Warriors coaching staff to play him in the Nines.