NRL: Slim chance for Seymour

Brett Seymour. Photo / Getty Images

The chance of Brett Seymour playing again for the Warriors appears limited, or at least injury-dependent, with Shaun Johnson rising and shining in the side's starting XIII.

When fit over the past two seasons, Seymour, 26, has given solid service. The Australian is fit again, but has been usurped for his spot by 20-year-old Johnson. Johnson's penchant for try-scoring and igniting a game with his playmaking is difficult to ignore, especially with a place almost certain in the play-offs.

The rookie Johnson's statistics after eight games make impressive reading compared with the veteran Seymour's after nine games. Johnson averages more run metres (85 v 28), kick metres (171 v 147), and tackle breaks (3.4 v 0.8). However Seymour makes more tackles per game (21 v 11) and fewer errors (0.6 v 1.4). It is also hard to gauge the value of Seymour's communications skills and ability to run a game under pressure. That could count for something in the finals. Ironically Seymour has helped Johnson and five-eighth James Maloney develop their skills. He may have mentored his way out of a position.

Seymour's rehabilitation is cited as the reason for his staggered return via the Vulcans ranks. Warriors coach Ivan Cleary is too shrewd to give a preference as to who he'd select if it was a head-to-head pick. "It's hypothetical," he said referring to Seymour's recovery. But Johnson - who has missed just one game since debuting in round 13 - looks destined for a crack in the finals.

"Buster [Seymour] is still every chance of playing," Cleary says. "He's had an unlucky run with injuries, like every time he's looked like getting his game together with match fitness.

"We had a good run with him helping us win games then he came back and got another injury and Shaun has progressed since. Sure, he's a different player to Shaun, but he's right in the frame."

Johnson has backed up his words to the Herald on Sunday in early June after earning his first cap. He has not been intimidated by more senior players and has never been paralysed by worshipping those around him.

"The boys look at me to tell them what to do," he said. "You can't be daunted; you've got to do your job. If the boys are looking, wondering 'what is Shaun up to?', you've got to step up."

Hooker Aaron Heremaia has worked closely with both players and will play with Seymour in the UK next year.

"Buster's a calming influence when things are tight; that's where his strength lies but Shaun has got the X-factor. An important plus for Shaun is that James has stepped up with more of a voice in the halves - which is Buster's area of expertise."

Maloney is also reluctant to choose between team-mates but his improved directional skills mean he can assume more of Seymour's responsibilities thus freeing up Johnson's flair and pace.

"It's a tough one. Buster has played well but suffered a horror run of injuries. There's a lot more on my shoulders at the moment as the senior playmaker. I'm happy to do it; if you want to be any good at this level you've got to stand up and make your mark. "I don't find it too pressuring, the boys expect a job from me. Shaun and I often talk about the style we want to play so we're trying to balance that. The more time we spend together the better."

Both are seen as long term signings. Maloney is expected to be offered big money to extend his contract beyond next year.