Leeds Rhinos have confirmed the appointment of former Parramatta Eels head coach Brad Arthur with immediate effect.
He signs until the end of the season after weeks of speculation, and will aim to achieve a playoff place for the side.
The Rhinos have won their last two games, although a golden point extra-time victory over London Broncos was incredibly unconvincing.
They’re just two points behind Catalans Dragons in the final playoff spot – and just four behind four teams – St Helens, Warrington Wolbvs, Hull KR and Salford Red Devils.
Therefore, an improvement in their fortunes could prove huge for the side.
Arthur was head coach of the Eels for ten seasons, leading them to the NRL Grand Final in 2022.
He was removed from his role in May after a poor start to the season, with the 48-16 Magic Round hammering at the hands of Melbourne Storm being the final straw for the 50-year-old.
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Commenting on the appointment, Sporting Director Ian Blease said, “We are delighted to have secured the services of a highly experienced coach in Brad Arthur for the remainder of this season.
“Having a vacancy at this time of year has its own challenges with some of our other options committed to their current clubs. Brad is keen to get started and is heading to England now, he hopes to be at Thursday’s game against Warrington Wolves to get his first look at the team.
“We have seen at times this year the potential for this squad and Brad’s challenge will be to get more consistency from this group.”
Credit: Imago Images
He continued: “I have always said that we would not rush into long term decisions for the good of the club. We recently announced new contracts for 15 of our brightest young stars and Brad’s appointment gives us the opportunity to focus on the current season whilst I can continue to build our long term vision.”
Commenting on joining the Rhinos for the remainder of the season, Arthur said, “I am pleased to be joining the Rhinos and can’t wait to get started. For me personally, this is a unique opportunity to grow as a coach.
“Clearly the club want a change of direction, otherwise this opportunity would not have become available. However, we have to realise that the Rhinos place a heap of importance on this season, not just the future plans.
“There is a lot of footy still to be played in 2024 and the chance to challenge for the play offs, especially with the talent we have within our squad. As well as making the most of that opportunity, the work we are all able to do over the next four months will help set the standards for the future and whatever lies ahead of myself and the club.
“I am looking forward to getting over and being at the game on Thursday night to see the boys take on Warrington.”
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Harry
July 11, 2024 at 6:13 am
Brad is probably a good choice for the rest of the season – new guy, new ideas, might shake the boys up.
However, I would not be hiring him for a long period. He has not been adept at building a roster – and he’s had plenty of time and little pressure in his ten years at Parramatta.
Parra is currently running 17 out of 17 in the NRL, and it would be misleading to blame that on losing its star half back between rounds 4 and 12 inclusive. The problems at Parra are with the roster and the coaching, and Brad takes the responsibility for both.