Departing Warrior Shaun Johnson has spoken out on his exit from the club for the first time, reflecting on a "crazy couple of days".
On Wednesday, the half was granted an early release from the final year of his contract and is now testing the market with other NRL sides.
Johnson took to social media to express some regret over the way the saga had played out, but insisted there were no hard feelings toward the team.
"So much has been said publicly over the past month which hasn't been ideal, but is what it is," he wrote in an Instagram post.
"I've got nothing bad to say about anyone involved with the club, sometimes things just don't work out, and I know they will be sweet and take things to where we all want them to be.
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The 28-year-old said he had "mixed emotions" over leaving the club he'd spent his entire NRL career with.
"To think my time at Mt Smart playing for my hometown team has officially come to an end is one of mixed emotions.
"Thank you to the boys and everyone that's been involved with the Warriors over the past eight years. I really am grateful and will never lose sight of how different my life could be if it wasn't for all of you."
He finished by thanking the fans and expressed his excitement about the prospect of starting afresh elsewhere.
"Those of you that have followed my journey probably still can't believe this is actually happening. I just want to let you know that I'm ok and really looking foward to what's next!
"I get to go somewhere fresh and take my game to a new level... how good!
"Thank you for believing and and keeping me strong. We all know it hasn't been a smooth ride, but with out your support, I wouldn't be who I am.
"I've loved entertaining, chatting and getting photos with you, and if ya stay with me, I'll continue to do so."
Johnson is widely expected to sign a one-year deal with the Cronulla Sharks in Sydney.
Newshub.
