Interim Warriors coach Todd Payten has made the shock revelation that he turned down the full-time job on Monday.
Speaking onย Fox Sports' NRL 360ย on Monday night, Payten revealed he has decided to not take the role in Auckland.
โI had a job interview 10 to 14 days ago. It went well. Iโd been offered the job last Monday and I told the club Iโm going to turn it down,โ Payten said. โIt just wasn't the right opportunity for myself and my family.โ
โItโs not an easy decision, something I agonised over for a few days but in the end, it was the first time Iโve put my family first in the decision. It just wasnโt the right timing.โ
โMy wifeโs father just started chemotherapy,โ he said.
โThat was at the forefront of our mind. Obviously with the COVID thing, for her to travel back and forth is very, very difficult.
โThat was a big part of it. Thatโs my decision and Iโve made it.
โIt was tough for everyone. The club was shocked and disappointed. Moving forward, my focus is on getting the side prepared from week to week.โ
With Paul Green walking away from the Cowboys top job, Payten confirmed his interest in returning to the club where he has previously served as an assistant.
โThereโs another opportunity thatโs on the tableโฆ that is the Cowboys.
โIโm not in any process at the moment, theyโre just aware of my interest.โ
Speculation has continued that the Warriors are targeting Wayne Bennett for the vacant coaching position for 2021, with Anthony Griffin and Green also touted as contenders.
The Warriors have previously rejected interest from Geoff Toovey and Ben and Shane Walker.
