Ivan Cleary tells Wests Tigers players he’s leaving, Michael Maguire to be named new coach

IVAN Cleary has sent a heartfelt text message to the entire Wests Tigers squad. apologising for the stress of recent months in the tug-of-war with Penrith for his signature.

Ivan Cleary is leaving Wests Tigers to rejoin the Panthers. Picture: Getty Images

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IVAN Cleary has texted a farewell message to Wests Tigers players and advised the group Michael Maguire will be named their new coach on Sunday morning — clearing the path for him to join Penrith.

News Corp Australia can reveal Cleary sent a heartfelt text message to the entire Wests Tigers squad on Saturday afternoon apologising for the stress of recent months in the tug-of-war with Penrith for his signature.

In the text message, Cleary alerted Tigers players to his official departure ahead of a formal announcement on Sunday that will see Maguire unveiled as his successor on a three-year, $2.5 million deal.

The Tigers were ready to declare their new coach on Friday but Maguire, the New Zealand coach, asked the joint-venture club to delay the announcement so he could focus on the Test against Wayne Bennett’s England.

But Penrith-bound Cleary has confirmed his short reign at the Tigers is over, in the process bringing an end to the NRL’s coaching merry-go-round.

Ivan Cleary is leaving Wests Tigers to rejoin the Panthers. Picture: Getty Images

The Panthers are waiting to hit the go button on Cleary as soon as they are given the all-clear from the Tigers.

The Panthers and Tigers have come to a confidential settlement, which will enable Cleary to rejoin the Panthers on a contract expected to be up to five years.

Maguire was in no mood to field questions about his return to the NRL when he fronted a press conference before the Kiwis’ Test against the Poms at Kingston Communications Stadium.

The Sunday Mail has learnt the Tigers will not stand in Maguire’s way should he wish to continue as New Zealand coach after taking on the role this year.

Michael Maguire will officially join Wests Tigers on a three-year deal. Picture: Getty Images

Maguire has indicated he is keen to juggle both roles and said it would be “quite easy” to coach both teams.

“I’m keen to focus on this Kiwi game,” Maguire said.

“It’s been good being away and in camp.

“I’m looking forward to what we’re doing here. It’s very much about that. I’m going to continually hold that line.

“I love coaching. I love the fact I’m part of this group. I’ve been fortunate that I’ve had down time away from coaching.”

Wests Tigers centre Esan Marsters is under Maguire’s tutelage in Kiwi camp.

The Test series ends on November 11, which means Wests Tigers players will start the pre-season on November 5 without their new mentor.

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Originally published as Ivan Cleary tells Wests Tigers players he’s leaving, Michael Maguire to be named new coach