Shane Flanagan close to a deal but Tim Sheens also in Dragons mix
Premiership-winning coach Shane Flanagan could be back in gainful employment by the end of next week as St George Illawarra step up their bid to provide greater support to head coach Paul McGregor.
It is understood the Dragons are considering two models as part of a reshaping in their football department — one would involve appointing a coaching director, such as multiple premiership winner Tim Sheens, the other bringing in an experienced assistant like Flanagan.
The latter option seems more likely, although McGregor will have the ultimate say, given his agreement with the club provides him with the power to appoint his football staff.
It is understood Flanagan has been in talks with the Dragons and further discussions are expected to be held in the latter stages of next week, with the potential that the ex-Cronulla coach could join the Dragons in the lead-up to the grand final, if not soon after.
Sources close to the Dragons confirmed the club are also in discussions with some leadership organisations as they look to strengthen their culture following a season of bitter disappointment that has prompted a thorough review of their football operations.
The Dragons remain committed to McGregor, who has two years left to run on his deal, but realise they need to shake things up to ensure there is no repeat of this season, when they finished in 15th spot.
Sheens has been out of the NRL since parting ways with Wests Tigers at the end of 2012. He resumed his coaching career as director of rugby league at Salford in the English Super League before then joining Hull KR, that association coming to an end midway through this year.
He was recently linked with Newcastle but has also popped up on the Dragons’ radar as they contemplate reinforcing their football department with some experienced heads.
Flanagan fits the bill on that front, having been cleared by the NRL to resume his coaching career as an assistant for the next two years. While the NRL cleared him last week to talk to clubs, he is prevented from taking up a job until mid-December.
The developments on the coaching front come amid renewed speculation over the future of backrower Tyson Frizell, who has another year to run on his deal with the Dragons. The Dragons insist they want to keep Frizell and he has indicated he would like to stay, their belief that the speculation has come about because someone close to the NSW and Australian forward has been attempting to get a guide as to his value on the open market before beginning extension talks with St George Illawarra. Rival clubs are free to begin tabling offers to the 27-year-old from November 1.
Meanwhile, Brisbane coach Anthony Seibold has held talks with Melbourne halfback Brodie Croft, as he looks to sign someone capable of guiding his talented team around the park next season. Croft has lost his place in the Melbourne starting side to Jahrome Hughes and, as a result, has been given permission to explore his options on the open market.
https://www.theaustralian.com.au/sp...x/news-story/924c6d4e772bba01d083de9fe00ed8ac