Laurie Daley says he has not properly considered whether he wants to return as NSW State of Origin head coach as speculation mounts he is a genuine option for the Blues.
Daley remains among a throng of contenders to replace Michael Maguire for next year, with the NSW board to meet next week for the first time since Maguire signed with Brisbane.
AAP has been told of support from members of the NSW Rugby League board to bring Daley back as coach, seven years after his axing at the end of 2017.
If Daley was to return, it’s possible he would need to give up his full-time job as a breakfast host on Sky Sports Radio, due to its links to gambling.
Speaking at the TAB’s Everest launch on Friday, Daley told reporters he had not had contact from the NSW Rugby League about the role.
“I haven’t had any discussions at all, and frankly I haven’t thought too much about it,” Daley said.
“They will make a decision on who is the right person, but for me it is not something I have considered. I am really enjoying what I am doing here with the races.
“But one thing I do know is you’re always really passionate about Australia and NSW.
“That’s one thing I learned from my time coaching NSW previously, everyone unites around this team and wants them to do well.
“It’s always an exciting challenge, and State of Origin is the toughest competition you can play or coach in.”
Daley coached NSW in five series between 2013 and 2017, and broke the Blues’ eight-year drought with his sole triumph in 2014.
But his contract was not renewed at the end of 2017, after Andrew Johns slammed the team’s tactics as they let a 1-0 lead slip and player behaviour before the decider also became an issue.
Regardless, Daley believes whoever does take over from Maguire will have a solid platform to work from.
“One thing I was really excited about this year is how they played. It was great to see Madge (Maguire) have that success,” Daley said.
“Obviously he has moved on to the Broncos, but I reckon whoever coaches NSW would have a good base to work off and a good bunch of players.
“It’s exciting for whoever puts their hand up and wants to have a crack at it.”
Craig Bellamy has ruled himself out of contention for the head coaching role, while Penrith boss Brian Fletcher has indicated that Ivan Cleary will not be available.
AAP understands there has also been internal support for Paul McGregor to take on the job.
Of all candidates McGregor is arguably the most experienced, with the NSW legend having had three stints as an assistant and 151 games in charge of St George Illawarra.
Michael Ennis is also among the list of possible contenders, while Danny Buderus and John Cartwright have also spent time in Blues camp in recent years.
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