Leeds Rhinos have been linked with a handful of Aussie coaches as chief executive Gary Hetherington weighs up a number of candidates down under. Hetherington arrived in Sydney earlier this week and is considering a host of possible head coaches after Richard Agar stepped down last month.
News Corp is reporting that Hetherington has been exploring former Cronulla Sharks coach John Morris, ex-St George Illawarra Dragons coach Paul McGregor, Penrith Panthers assistant coach Cameron Ciraldo, Sydney Roosters assistant Jason Ryles and former Sharks premiership-winning coach, Shane Flanagan.
Ryan Carr, Parramatta’s assistant coach, is also said to be a strong contender and is known to the Hetherington from his work as Featherstone Rovers, who enjoy a close relationship with Leeds. Hetherington has several close contacts at Manly and will visit Sydney’s northern beaches on Monday, including a tour of the Sea Eagles’ new $33m Centre of Excellence at Brookvale Oval.
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“Leeds are virtually the most successful English club over the past 20 years but they’re going through a rough trot at the moment,” said former Manly official and close mate, Peter Peters. Gary is here looking at coaching possibilities. He is by far the most respected chief executive in Super League.
“He has a wonderful record with the Leeds Rhinos and is a great friend of the Manly club. Gary always visits Manly when in Australia and I understand he will look over the new Centre of Excellence on Monday.”
The Rhinos have won just one game all season and have tasted defeat in both games since Jamie Jones-Buchanan was placed in interim charge.
