Fox snares Johns

FoxSports has made one of their most important off-season signings in years with the valuable signature of former NRL Footy Show co-host Matthew Johns who will front up the television broadcasters revamped National Rugby League coverage in 2012 and beyond.

While initially disappointed at the breakdown of contract negotiations at Channel Nine, Johns said Fox Sports’ enthusiasm about revamping its NRL coverage is ideal to his persona.

“They just expressed a desire to up their stakes, saying they’re looking for a bit of a change,” Johns said.

Matthew Johns will be given the added roles of creating unique programming for Fox8 and The Comedy Channel which will allow him to keep his multiple television persona’s separate to the role that FoxSports chief executive Patrick Delaney wants him to fill in regards to National Rugby League coverage.

“We’ve been pursuing Matt for a while,” Mr Delany said.

“Being someone who has been an NRL fan all of my life, Matt brings quite a unique mixture of being able to give simple analysis and insight to the fans and also a bit of charming humour.

“You don’t see that a lot.”

Johns will be the head of the broadcasters NRL Coverage, similar to the role undertaken by Eddie McGuire’s role with the new FoxFooty channel with it expected that Johns will host Monday Night Football from the studio, as well as host Wednesday night’s NRL on FOX programming alongside Warren Smith.

“It is great to be making somewhat of a comeback to Rugby League” Johns said through a statement.