Former Hull FC, Bradford Bulls and Wakefield boss Brian Smith plays shock to become new head coach – Total Rugby League

Former Hull FC, Bradford Bulls and Wakefield Trinity boss Brian Smith has made a shock move to become the new Eels Parramatta head coach.

Sydney Morning Herald revealed that Smith, who is often regarded as one of the best coaches in the world after leading three different clubs to four grand finals in 1992, 1993, 2001 and 2010, is in the running to take over the Eels vacancy. following the cutting of Brad Arthur earlier in the year.

Smith has not coached in the NRL for 12 years, with his last coaching role coming with Wakefield in 2015 and 2016.

The veteran boss previously managed Parramatta for nine seasons between 1997 and 2006 and recently took up a coaching consultant role with local New South Wales Casino Cougars.

However, Josh Hannay is still said to be the favorite for the job.

“Our performance on the NRL ground this season has been disappointing and well below expectations,” Eels general manager Jim Sarantinos told SMH.

“We know it’s not what you expect from us, and it’s certainly not what we expect from ourselves. We understand your disappointment and share it.

“I can assure you that the current coaches and playing group are committed to turning things around. They put in the hard work in training and their desire to win is undeniable…

“We are currently in the midst of a comprehensive process to appoint a new head coach.

“This is a critical appointment and we are taking our time to make sure we appoint the right person – someone who embodies our values, will establish the right culture and can lead our football program into a new era.”

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