Hull FC’s New Direction: Richie Myler Addresses the Search for Tony Smith’s Successor
In his first press conference as Hull FC’s new signing, Richie Myler faced a barrage of questions surrounding the club’s search for a new head coach. With the recent rejection of an offer to Paul Rowley, the Black and Whites have returned to the market, and Myler provided valuable insights into the process.
Interim Coach in Contention
Addressing the situation, Myler revealed that interim coach Simon Grix is firmly in contention for the role. “Grixy is in the pole position for it in terms of he’s doing the job day-to-day. The boys are responding, and performances have got better from several 50-0 defeats, starting in the last few weeks,” Myler stated.
Exploring Options
However, the club remains open to exploring their options, with Myler emphasizing that they will take their time to ensure the right fit. “Ultimately, the question will be: is anyone going to add to what we’ve got and give us that bit extra to what we need. If that person is out there, we might go down that route,” he said.
Speculation Surrounding Adrian Lam
Speculation has also surrounded the potential appointment of Adrian Lam, with Myler acknowledging brief conversations but no formal offer made. “The only formal contract I put out there was to Paul Rowley,” Myler clarified.
The Ideal Candidate
The new Hull FC signing emphasized the importance of finding a coach with prior Super League experience, though he didn’t rule out the possibility of an Australian coach taking the helm. “This competition is different to the NRL. That’s not to say an NRL coach doesn’t understand this competition. I’ve been vocal and said it’s going to be someone who understands the competition and the dynamic of it, because technically it is a different game,” he explained.
Timing of the Appointment
As for the timing of the appointment, Myler suggested both immediate and 2025 options are being considered, with the preference to have the new head coach in place before the bulk of Hull’s recruitment for the following season.
“Ultimately, the question will be: is anyone going to add to what we’ve got and give us that bit extra to what we need. If that person is out there, we might go down that route.”
With the search for Tony Smith’s successor ongoing, Richie Myler’s press conference provided a glimpse into the club’s decision-making process and the factors they are weighing to ensure a successful transition.
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