Ex-Leeds Rhinos boss Richard Agar finds surprising new coaching role

When Richard Agar stepped down as Leeds Rhinos head coach over a month ago, it was the end of an era at Headingley.

Appointed to steady the ship following the sacking of Dave Furner, Agar did just that, helping to stem off relegation and even guiding the Rhinos to Challenge Cup success in 2020.

2021 saw Leeds qualify for the Super League play-offs despite a horrendous injury list at the start of the season before the West Yorkshire club ran out of steam against St Helens in the semi-finals.

The optimism going into 2022 was huge, with the signings of Blake Austin, Aidan Sezer, James Bentley and David Fusitu’a expected to put bums on seats.

Unfortunately for Agar, a run of defeats led to him mutually agreeing with chief executive Gary Hetherington that he could take Leeds no further.

Now, though, he is back in the coaching mix, working alongside Samoa boss Matt Parish ahead of this year’s World Cup.

Rugby League Samoa president Tagaloa Faafouina Su’a said the announcement would end speculation about the nation’s coaching for the Pacific Test and World Cup.

“The board and executive of RL Samoa are mindful of the media speculation and subsequent concerns from our fans on issues surrounding our staff,” Su’a said.

“Recent media commentary has speculated on the interest in coaching Toa Samoa by several individuals but, let me be clear, as of now, we have not sort or received any official interest or approaches from any of these parties.

“We are confident in the players and staff we have and urge our nation and our fans to continue to show your support and offer your prayers.”