NRL 2023: NSWRL push pause on plan to bring Phil Gould back into NSW camp

A decision on Brad Fittler’s future as Blues coach – and whether Phil Gould will rejoin the NSW coaching system has been delayed, Brent Read and David Riccio explain why.

NSWRL ask Brad Fittler for more clarity over proposed role for Phil Gould.

A decision on Brad Fittler’s future as Blues coach is set to be put on hold as the NSWRL board weigh-up his proposal for a new-look coaching staff, including the return of Phil Gould.

The NSWRL board were aiming to make a call on Fittler’s future on Wednesday, but have decided to press pause on the matter in order to dissect the incumbent coach’s plan in more detail.

Fittler had presented his plan to remain in charge of the Blues last Friday.

It included the overhaul of his coaching staff with Greg Alexander, Paul McGregor, Danny Buderus and possibly Andrew Johns all set to be replaced.

From the NSWRL board’s point of view, they are under no time pressure to make a final call on sticking with Fittler.

NSW Rugby League Chairman Paul Conlon said: “The NSW Rugby League Board met today to give consideration to the multiple issues involved in the future structure of the NSW Blues State of Origin program and those details could not be resolved to finality at this meeting.

“The Board will make no further comment until the matter is resolved.”

Queensland are also yet to make a call on Maroons coach Billy Slater, who is yet to be signed for 2024.

The delay in who will coach the Blues in 2014 comes as the NSWRL and QRL prepare to front the ARL Commission next week to outline their plans for rugby league’s future in their respective states.

NSWRL have pushed pause on any appointment of Phil Gould to the Blues.

GUS CONFIRMS SHOCK BLUES STATE OF ORIGIN MOVE

Phil Gould has confirmed that he is on the verge of a State of Origin return after being approached by NSW coach Brad Fittler to replace Greg Alexander as his advisor on his new-look staff.

Fittler is fighting to keep his position at the helm of the Blues and has put his plans to the NSW Rugby League as he attempts to convince the hierarchy that he deserves another chance after successive series defeats.

The NSWRL board will meet on Wednesday when they are expected to make a final call on whether to extend his tenure for at least another year. Gould expects that Fittler will be retained and if he is, it appears he will form part of the Blues’ brains trust.

The Bulldogs head of football, one of the most successful coaches in Origin history, revealed Fittler had spoken to him about a paid position on his staff, although he insisted he wasn’t looking for any remuneration.

“He has never really asked for much in his life and he rang me last week to say Greg Alexander was stepping down from his role, that he would like me to get involved with the Blues,” Gould said on 100% Footy.

Brad Fittler has approached Phil Gould about joining the Blues brain’s trust.

“I think it is only simply to talk to him and whatever he needs. He really didn’t explain to me what he wants me to do.

“I am certainly not chasing a job, I am not looking for a job. He was talking about a paid position — I am certainly not chasing a paid position with NSW Rugby League.

“He is yet to be appointed, That comes this week. He spoke to me about his plans for other people he is going to bring into the coaching staff and inner sanctum round Origin.

“It is important for the Blues because they have lost two in a row. You can’t go on like that — they have to get a win. He needs a win.”

This masthead understands that the NSWRL asked Fittler for more clarity around the proposed roles within the NSW coaching set-up in anticipation of holding fresh talks this week over the coach’s future.

Gould would help fill the void as the Blues face a mass exodus — aside from Alexander, assistant coaches Paul McGregor and Danny Buderus have also stepped away while there has been speculation Andrew Johns will join them.

Gould and Fittler have a long relationship stretching back to their coach-player days at Penrith. They now work alongside each other on Nine’s rugby league coverage.

Brad Fittler and Phil Gould have a long working relationship.

Gould revealed Fittler was pushing for at least another two years at the helm of the Blues but conceded the incumbent coach desperately needed a series win after being played off a break by Billy Slater over the past two years.

“I think it will come down more to tenure,” Gould said.

“I don’t think there is any doubt Brad Fittler will probably be appointed but for how long. I think he was looking for a couple of years.

“They have lost two in a row. It will be hard to keep your job if you have lost three in a row., That is the nature of the beast.

“I don’t think he deserves to lose the job after what he has done. But it is certainly an important year coming up for them.”

Originally published as NRL 2023: NSWRL push pause on plan to bring Phil Gould back into NSW camp