South Sydney captain Adam Reynolds' professional attitude has been praised by fellow local junior Alex Johnston as uncertainty continues over the playmaker's future at the NRL club.
Several clubs have been linked to the off-contract Rabbitohs' star including Brisbane and North Queensland with Souths only willing to offer the premiership-winning halfback a one-year deal.
It's a scenario that's all too familiar to Johnston, who appeared to be on the way out of Redfern last year before signing a new two-year deal in September.
Johnston said despite the speculation, it was to Reynolds' credit he was not letting it become a distraction on the field.
"I feel like he's in a bit of similar situation I was last year, so I'm very sympathetic towards him," said Johnston, who'll play his 150th NRL match against Wests Tigers this weekend.
"If he does go I only wish him the best.
"I love him as a bloke and as a player too - he's a superstar of this team and we'll be sad but whatever happens, happens.
"He's a professional and as you can see the way he's playing - he's just playing his best footy and he's trying to let things work itself out."
NSW Origin hooker Damien Cook is holding out hope Reynolds and South Sydney can find a solution that keeps the local junior at the club.
Cook says playing with the 30-year-old was a big part of what lured him to the club in late 2015 and he was eager for their on-field partnership to continue.
"I've personally told Renno that I'd love him to stay," Cook said.
"I'm not a part of what's going on but ... he was a big reason why I come to the club.
"He's one of my best mates now so I'd hate to see him go, and I hate to see him in other colours."
Australian Associated Press
