Eels deny Stuart deal is done
Date July 22, 2012 - 10:29PM
Adrian Proszenko
Deposed ... Eels coach Stephen Kearney.
Photo: Anthony Johnson
Despite reports tonight suggesting Ricky Stuart has already signed on to coach Parramatta next year, club chief executive Bob Bentley has denied a deal with the NSW mentor or anyone else has been done.
Stuart's manager, John Fordham, met Eels officials on Friday and the directors held a board meeting earlier today to discuss the replacement for Stephen Kearney.
Fox Sports commentators claimed the NSW Origin coach had signed with Parramatta during the Eels' upset win over Melbourne, but Bentley said they had not reached an agreement.
Unless there is a hitch in negotiations, it is likely Stuart will put pen to paper in the next few days. The Eels are in the process of putting together an offer they hope will prevent him from joining Canberra or staying on as boss of the Blues.
"We're in discussions with Ricky and other candidates but we haven't put pen to paper at this point in time," Bentley said.
"Talks will continue over the next 24 to 48 hours. We might be in a position early next week to make some announcement in that regard."
After his meeting with Fordham, Bentley felt the club offered Stuart the challenge he craved.
"The sort of things they were looking for in a club, Parramatta has good appeal for them. A strong leagues club and financial backing, good playing roster and obviously the resources around the structure we've currently got. It ticks the boxes in that regard."
Link:
http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/...eal-is-done-20120721-22hcx.html#ixzz21GByd1Ol
