Anthony Griffin has emerged as the frontrunner the St George Illawarra Dragons coaching job, reports The Sydney Morning Herald.
The Dragons presented a shortlist to the board with the experienced coach sitting at the top of the list.
Should Griffin be appointed, he will replace Dragon's coach Paul McGregor.
Sources told the Sydney Morning Herald “one of Griffin’s strongest supporters is also one of his rivals for the job.”
Interim Dragons coach Dean Young worked alongside Griffin last year as the Tongan National Team's assistant coach.
The Dragons said they want Young to stay on board as assistant coach if he doesn't get the coaching position.
The NRL board held a meeting last Tuesday, where Dragons directors prioritised three main coaching criteria.
These coaching priorities included defence, discipline and a history of being involved in successful cultures.
With Griffin's 23-years of coaching experience, it's clear to see why he has the top spot.
Other names in the mix for the Dragons position include Newcastle Knights assistant David Furner and Roosters assistant Craig Fitzgibbon.
Fitzgibbon, however, is unlikely to leave the Roosters before the end of next season. But if he changes his mind, he may take Griffin’s spot as top choice.
Oh no Dragons supporters!
This is the same man that the Brisbane players hated.
The same man that drove a wedge between players, coaching staff at Penrith. Who would never take advice from other coaching staff there. Who famously gave out a photo copy of the next game plan to the players there. That was ten words long!!!
Be afraid, be very afraid!!!!
What the hell is wrong with Geoff Toovey? At least he’s never short on words & is truely passionate about his coaching roles.
My immediate thoughts were no not him, but if he’s truly got a hardcore approach then that may be what the dragons need. Currently they are viewed as a backwater club so if he’s going to usher in professionalism and a tougher edge then I’d give him a go. At least it’s not jobs for the boys.