Johns' services had been keenly sought by clubs including Newcastle, where he made 249 NRL appearances during a glittering career. However, the Roosters snuck under everyone's guard and will add the Team of the Century halfback to a staff which includes premiership-winning coach Trent Robinson, England mentor Steve McNamara and the club's former NSW and Australian international Craig Fitzgibbon.

Johns will work with all of the Roosters halves, including the promising youngsters coming through the ranks. However, most interest will centre on his relationship with established star Pearce and the fast-rising Hastings. Pearce became the youngest player in history to make 200 first-grade appearances and is one of NSW's most capped players. But despite captaining the club and winning a premiership, Pearce is yet to impose himself on the State of Origin arena. It is hoped that with Johns working on his game, the 26-year-old will take the next step at state and club level and steer the Roosters to another grand final win.

Pearce returned from a hamstring injury in Friday night's loss to Brisbane, but the injury prevented him from running out in the second half of the grand final qualifier. Hastings has been a revelation while filling in at halfback during Pearce's absence and the pair are likely to be the starting halves next year. However, the signing of young gun Nikorima – a good friend of Hastings' from their representative appearances together – will ensure there is a healthy rivalry for spots and another promising prospect for Johns to work with. Another youngster coming into the system is Ryan Matterson, who was released from his Eels contract, while Tyler Cornish is in the NYC ranks.

The minor premiers will be making significant changes to their spine in 2016 after five-eighth James Maloney signed with Cronulla. Fullback Roger Tuivasa-Sheck has also played his last game for the club and will shift to New Zealand in the off-season. Roosters powerbrokers have employed Johns, who is expected to retain his media roles next year, to help with the transition.

Barrett will have challenges of his own after Kieran Foran signed with Parramatta and will need to make a call on who will replace the New Zealand captain.