He was overlooked for the Manly job but Sea Eagles assistant coach John Cartwright is ready to work with Des Hasler
SOME assistant coaches would feel aggreived if they were overlook for the top job. But for John Cartwright, Des Hasler’s arrival is only a good thing.
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THE man overlooked as Manly coach has broken his silence to reveal an unwavering support of recently appointed Des Hasler.
John Cartwright — a leading contender to replace outgoing Trent Barrett — told The Daily Telegraph Hasler had “as good a record as any modern day coach.”
Manly chairman Scott Penn considered Cartwright long and hard before opting for Hasler on a three-season contract.
Cartwright remains contracted at Brookvale for the next two seasons.
Speaking from America, where he is currently enjoying an off-season holiday, Cartwright said he was “looking forward” to working with Hasler.
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Hasler and Cartwright both came through the Penrith junior system, Cartwright debuting in 1985, two years after Hasler left for Manly.
The pair toured together with the Ashes-winning 1990 Kangaroos through England and France and also competed at State of Origin level for NSW.
“I haven’t spoken with anyone but I’ve known Des since I was 15 years old,” Cartwright told The Daily telegraph.
“He has as good a record as any modern day coach.
“We toured together and I have played with him. I would look forward to working with him.
“Des and I also played together for NSW. I’m contracted at Manly for two more years.”
Cartwright remains close mates with Barrett.
A former Titans head coach and NSW and Cowboys assistant, Cartwright is well respected and regarded by the Manly playing group and would prove invaluable for Hasler.
Hasler said he too was ready and excited to work alongside Cartwright and Manly’s other assistant coach, Chad Randall.
“They are both good fellas,” Hasler said. “I have played with and against John and I have coached Chad, I have worked with Chad.
“Both are good human beings, good fellas.”
Randall is also contacted at Manly until the end of 2020.
Manly players return to training on November 5, Cartwright will be back a week earlier.
The Sea Eagles have two head coaches contracted with club officials hopeful of a resolution within the next fortnight.
Penn has previously stated he would not place the players in an awkward and embarrassing position by having them return to training to be confronted with two head coaches.
“Trent resigned — it was his decision — but he still employed by the club,” Penn said. “As a club, we need to protect our interests and, as a club, that is exactly what we are doing.”
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