LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The New Zealand Warriors have announced that Shaun Johnson will remain in the team for their NRL semifinal against the Newcastle Knights.
The Warriors' official website, warriors.kiwi, has reported this update.
Three players, Tom Ale, Bunty Afoa, and Edward Kosi, have been omitted from the extended squad 24 hours before the game.
However, hooker Freddy Lussick and fullback Taine Tuaupiki have been retained in the 19-man game day lineup.
Johnson, who has been named the Player of the Year, missed the qualifying final against Penrith due to a calf complaint.
In Johnson's absence, Te Maire Martin played as halfback for only the second time since fracturing his left fibula in April.
Interestingly, Martin's injury occurred during a game against the Knights, which was also the last time he and Johnson played together.