Leeds Rhinos Confirm Brad Arthur as New Head Coach
On Wednesday morning, Leeds Rhinos confirmed the appointment of Brad Arthur as their new head coach, and Ian Blease, the club’s director of rugby, addressed the media to discuss the details.
Blease revealed that the long-term objective of securing the 2025 coach is still ongoing, and Arthur has put his name forward for the role, stating he could come in for a short period or potentially stay on long-term if necessary. Blease acknowledged that all options are open, and the club is still having conversations with other coaching candidates, but the process will remain within the club.
“We’re still having conversations with other people, but the process will remain within the club.”
Regarding Arthur’s potential influence on recruitment, Blease said they’ve had discussions about that, with players eager to join him. However, Blease needs to consider the club’s tight salary cap but expects Arthur’s advice will be valuable.
When asked about Paul Rowley, the Salford coach, Blease played a straight bat, stating that Rowley is under contract and he wouldn’t comment on other coaches’ situations.
Blease explained the reasoning behind bringing Arthur in now, stating that the club still has plenty to play for this season and believes Arthur’s experience and honesty will help improve the team’s performances, which have been inconsistent throughout the year. The club is still targeting a playoff spot, and this move is aimed at achieving that.
Key Details of Brad Arthur’s Appointment
“I’m excited to get started and work with the group of players. I’m looking forward to the challenge and working hard to improve the team’s performances.”
- Arthur has put his name forward for the 2025 coach role, with the potential for a short-term or long-term stay
- The club is still in conversations with other coaching candidates, but the process will remain within the club
- Blease expects Arthur’s advice on recruitment to be valuable, despite the club’s tight salary cap
- The appointment is aimed at improving the team’s inconsistent performances and securing a playoff spot this season
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