NRL: Johnson has come of age - McFadden

Shaun Johnson (r) waves to the crowd after his side bowed out the of NRL Auckland Nines competition last year. Photo / File.

Golden Boot winner Shaun Johnson is setting himself up for a big NRL season, preparing to shake off past inconsistency, says Warriors coach Andrew McFadden.

With brilliant halfback Johnson and several teammates riding the momentum of the Kiwis' 2014 Four Nations triumph, McFadden says it's all systems go for the Warriors as they chase an elusive maiden premiership in their 21st season.

Beginning his first full season in charge of club, McFadden feels 24-year-old Johnson came of age last year and the Four Nations success was a major boost for many.

"It was a bit of a monkey off the back for New Zealand winning that tournament," McFadden told Sky Sports Radio.

"I'm sure that the players involved, particularly someone like Shaun Johnson, will take a lot of confidence out of that."

Johnson's sizzling displays in the end-of-season Four Nations, including the victory over the Kangaroos in the final, did much to earn him the Golden Boot but left fans wondering why he can't consistently hit those heights in the NRL.

"I think that's really Shaun's drive at the moment," McFadden said.

The coach has noticed a change in Johnson since he returned from the 2013 World Cup, with playmaker working hard to improve his defence.

"He's maturing, he's getting a bit older as well which always helps and I think he's setting himself up for a big season," he said.

Former assistant McFadden took over the top job after round five last year when his Matthew Elliot was sacked following a lacklustre start to the season.

He said he felt far more comfortable in the role this year.

"The circumstances around the way I got the job was, I must admit it was tough," he said.

-AAP