Sean Johnson talks about coming out of retirement to play for the New Zealand Kiwis

Kiwi great Shaun Johnson has spoken of his latest rugby league swan song, admitting he “didn’t think it would happen” after deciding to hang up his boots.

The 34-year-old announced his retirement within a year and retired from the game in dramatic fashion, setting up a late try for the Warriors in their round 26 clash with Cronulla.

But with Team New Zealand in an injury crisis, Johnson had no choice but to respond to coach Stacey Jones’ SOS in an attempt to help the team retain their Pacific title.

READ MORE: Lawyer says mom faces 14 years in prison

READ MORE: Mom’s grim future opens the door to a Hunt reunion

READ MORE: Smith Fails, Teen Cop Prodigy Gives Horrible Shot in Test Audition

With the likes of Dylan Brown and Jahrom Hughes unable to play halves, Johnson will line up for the Kiwis in a blockbuster against Australia this weekend.

“It’s like the free tickets or free tokens you get from slot machines after winning a few games,” he told The Sydney Morning Herald.

“I’ve been in environments in the past where the weight is on your shoulders and you have to be the main guy on the team.

“I don’t feel it. Whether it is true or not, I don’t care.

“I’m here to have fun, make the most of any opportunity I get in this jersey again because, to be honest, I didn’t think it would happen again.”

During his illustrious career, Johnson has already made 32 appearances for his country, including an appearance in the 2013 World Cup final.

Watch the 2024 Pacific Championships on Nine and 9Now.

The fans’ favorite believes his experience in club football since he last pulled on a Kiwi jersey five years ago will stand him in good stead but admits the need to sharpen his preparation ahead of Sunday’s match.

“I was really happy with where the New Zealanders were and the depth they had and the halves they had. I didn’t expect to end up here. I had plans a couple of weeks ago,” he said.

“And I stand here a completely different man (to the last time he played for New Zealand). I’m clearly in a different place in my life and these are moments I will treasure forever. I will actually do this.” It’s just a special place and a special group to be a part of.

“I put the kit on and I feel like a footballer again, so it’s great.

“I’ll soak it in today and come tomorrow, come to my first full practice, I’ll feel like an athlete, I’ll feel like Sean, who really wants to do his part to help us win.”