Rugby League Immortal Andrew Johns has expressed his concern over injured Melbourne star Ryan Papenhuyzen, saying he may not play this year due to a knee injury suffered last year.

In Round 18 last season, Papenhuyzen suffered a shattered patella and the club has since taken a cautious approach with his recovery.

The young fullback also flew to the United States seeking the assistance of Philadelphia-based rehab expert Bill Knowles.

Johns told The Continuous Call Team Papenhuyzen shouldn’t risk himself playing until he’s recovered fully.

“I heard at the start of the year people saying he mightn’t play again this season,” Johns said.

“I understand he’s done some strength work on his leg, and his bad leg is down about 50 percent on strength compared to the other one.

“Until it’s up around 90-95 percent you don’t want to risk it.

“He may not play this year.”

See more highlights from The Continuous Call Team below.

Image: NRL Imagery – Scott Davis.