Leeds Rhinos will consider new coaching applicants as the search heats up

Leeds Rhinos are set to consider further candidates in the next stage of their search for a new head coach as the club continue to work through the process of appointing a new head coach.

The Rhinos are looking for a new head coach following the departure of Rohan Smith last month, who left after just over two years in charge at Headingley. This has seen the club receive applications from across the globe, with sporting director Ian Blease using the international break to determine whether other candidates will be considered in the next part of the recruitment process.

Paul Rowley, the current Salford Red Devils head coach, and Brad Arthur, the former Parramatta Eels boss, are believed to be two coaches Leeds have identified as strong candidates for the job and both remain in the club’s thinking.

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However, Blease is believed to have identified other candidates who will continue to be considered, giving the Rhinos more options as they get closer to making a final decision. The coaches being considered remain unclear, although former South Sydney Rabbitohs head coach Jason Demetriou is known to have shown interest in the position since Smith’s departure.

The Rhinos are keeping their options open, given that there’s no guarantee that Arthur or Rowley are necessarily viable. Arthur is currently without a job but has been linked with other roles in the NRL and it is unclear whether he is considering the Leeds job as a long-term option.

As for Rowley, he is contracted to Salford and it is unclear what kind of financial package the Reds would like to make this happen. The Rhinos could decide to look elsewhere if the Red Devils ask for what they consider to be over the odds for an out-of-touch coach at the end of next year.

In terms of timing, it is almost certain that Leeds will not have anyone in position until they play London Broncos this Saturday. While Leeds are keen to get their next manager in place as soon as possible, they are willing to be patient if they ensure they get their desired candidate.

The Rhinos are currently seventh in Super League, two points off the play-offs, with twelve rounds of the season to go.