Sydney Swans young gun Harry Cunningham addressed the media ahead of training at the SCG on Thursday morning.

The 24-year-old will play his 100^th AFL match in Sydney’s clash with Collingwood at the SCG on Saturday night.

Here are some key quotes from the press conference.

Alex Johnson stealing his attention

“I’m pretty happy AJ stole my thunder. I’m a bit of a fly-under-the-radar sort of guy. I was absolutely stoked when I heard the news yesterday. Being a good mate of AJ’s, I’ve seen what he’s gone through. He was there for my debut game and I haven’t played with him since. It’s been a while between drinks but I’m absolutely stoked to be running out there again with him this week.”

How Cunningham heard of Johnson’s return

“I actually ran into AJ yesterday and I knew something was up. He was up and about, a bit more than usual yesterday. It was a pretty special moment to be able to share that moment with him and share this weekend with him. It makes that milestone game that little bit better this weekend." 

Johnson’s never-say-die attitude

“I don’t think anyone can put into place what’s gone on throughout his career, to not play since the 2012 grand final. I was looking at some stats yesterday. There’s plenty that’s gone on since that day. It’s been a long journey for Alex and he’s had plenty of setbacks along the way, but it just says a lot about his character and his resilience. To be able to do what he’s done and then come out the other side is pretty special.”

Cunningham’s 100-game milestone

“It’s a pretty special occasion. Not many get to this stage to be able to raise the bat and play 100 games. It’s something that I’m very proud of and it’s something I’ll probably look back on at the end of the season. I’m just grateful and blessed to be at such a great club and to be able to share this weekend with not only the Club and my teammates but my family and friends who will come down for it as well is awesome. It’s something that’s very special and to do it at such a great club is awesome and I’m very proud of getting to this point.”

Bouncing back against Collingwood

“We’ve just got to get back on the horse and as John said earlier this week, back into the ring and start firing again. We’re in control as players to be able to get that done. We’re really looking forward to getting back out hopefully in front of a packed SCG. We get to celebrate the 100-year reunion of the 1918 premiership. We’ve got a responsibility to go out there and do those guys proud. We’re really looking forward to doing that this weekend and hitting back with a good four-quarter effort.”