Mark Thompson has implored Steve Johnson's Greater Western Sydney teammates to return the favours Johnson has done them and help the former Cat find his best form.
Former Geelong star Johnson enjoyed an outstanding first season with the Giants in in 2016, kicking 43 goals but has struggled to make an impact this year, in his 16th AFL season.
Johnson missed a significant chunk of the pre-season with a thumb injury and has also had knee issues since the campaign started.
The 33-year-old forward is averaging less possessions and goals than last year, though he did tally a season-high 20 touches in last round's loss to St Kilda.
Johnson, who reached the 500 career-goal milestone earlier this season has gone goalless in his last two games, the first time since 2015 he hasn't notched a major in successive matches.
Some pundits have expressed concern about Johnson's form and position in the star-studded Giants side, in what looms as his final season but Thompson said he wouldn't give up on man he coached at Geelong for nine seasons.
Johnson has proved an invaluable mentor to his younger teammates, many of whom have credited him for his advice.
Thompson suggested it was time that assistance was reciprocated.
"His teammates should help him out a bit, why don't they just try and help Stevie out?" Thompson said on Fox Footy's AFL 360.
"He helps a few of them out, he's been good for the club."
Thompson also backed Johnson to come good, especially in big matches.
"Good coaches will actually just see the benefit in keeping him around because you'll play a big game and he'll play well in that big game," Thompson said.
"But if he's not then he can't.
"Too many people give up on people, I wouldn't give up on him, no way."
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