Michael Johnson has played every game of his 13th season and is hopeful his hard work will pay off as he prepares for the second half of the year.
After a well-deserved rest, Johnson is now looking at delivering his best football following the bye.
“I think the bye came at the right time,” Johnson said.
“I’ve played 12 games this year and you look at last year I only played four, so the body is feeling it a bit.
“It was just good to get away down south and refresh and relax with the family.”
After almost 12 months away from the game, Johnson said the key to a strong return was in his pre-season.
“It’s always hard to get back into the rhythm, especially (with) the pace of the game,” Johnson said.
“I’m not getting any younger but I thought I trained well over the pre-season.
“I think I did the work when it came to kilometres and the amount of sessions we did so I backed myself in.
“I’m lucky enough to play a lot of games so far. I’ve used my experience, especially when I’m out in the field, you just want that experience to get yourself up and going.”
“Looking at last year with the hamstring and the setbacks – it was always going to be challenging to come and fit right in.
“I thought I’ve worked really hard and I’m starting to play some good footy so, hopefully, I can keep carrying it on for the team.”
Johnson has continued to spend some of his time as a back-up ruckman in 2017 and the key defender is happy help out away from his main role.
“I do like a little pinch hit in the ruck but I don’t get paid to play in the ruck, so I’m happy playing in the backline and sort of controlling it down there,” Johnson said.
“Whenever (senior coach) Ross (Lyon) needs a bit of a changeup I’m happy to put my hand up. If it’s playing up forward or a bit in the ruck to help Aaron (Sandilands) and the other ruckmen.
“I’ve played that role over my career so far so I really enjoy it and anything for the team pretty much.”
