Cronulla Sharks star Shaun Johnson says Braydon Trindall reminds him of himself as an up-and-comer.
Johnson, 30, was full of praise for his 21-year-old team-mate during a pre-season stop on the Sunshine Coast.
The 2004 Golden Boot winner, who has amassed almost 200 NRL games and 30 New Zealand caps, said fellow half Trindall was “an out and out footy player”.
The Caboolture Snakes product, who developed his skills in the Sunshine Coast competitions, made his NRL debut last year and played five games.
He is set to step things up in 2021.
“If he gets an opportunity, he won’t let anyone down,” Johnson said.
“He got a taste of it last year and I’m sure he’s going to be even better when he gets another crack.
“He plays eyes up. He’s not afraid to back himself, which reminds me of myself once upon a time.
“I really like that about ‘Tricky’. He plays eyes up and goes hard.
“And he uses his shoulder in defence (legally), which I think all the boys love to see.”
Trindall set up several tries and scored one himself during the Sharks’ 36-28 trial win over the Dragons at Cronulla on Friday night.
He’s jostling for a Round 1 spot with the likes of Matt Moylan and Connor Tracey, with Johnson due to return from injury in Round 8.
Johnson expected the crafty ball player to get some action during the season.
“There should be no reason why he’s not in line for game time.”
“Every-one is putting their hands up to get selected, especially for Round 1. He’s aiming for it.”
Sharks and New South Wales legend Paul Gallen also praised Trindall.
“He’s going good and has trained well (during the pre-season),” he said.
“He’s trained well and is a tough bloke with skills.
“With Shuan being out and with injuries he could be playing.”
There’s a chance Trindall could feature for the Sharks at Sunshine Coast Stadium on April 3, when they ‘host’ the Cowboys.
Johnson and Gallen were at Sunshine Coast Stadium last week, to officially launch the game.
