https://www.theaustralian.com.au/co...k=eaf8082116510129ddc3379624f7e5ee-1618019819
The John Morris camp shifted their public relations campaign into overdrive this week. Morris, off contract at the end of the year, has plenty of people in his corner as he attempts to convince the Cronulla Sharks that he deserves a new deal.
Weekend Read understands that one such person reached out to Manly this week to ask whether they would be interested in securing Morris’ services for next season. His management insisted it was made without their knowledge or that of Morris.
Regardless, it is understood the approach was made to a person with ties to the Sea Eagles, a way of dipping the toe in the water to see if there was any chance that Manly would entertain the prospect of hiring the Sharks coach.
At the same time, it would have heaped pressure on the Sharks to make a call on their coach. The approach came up empty-handed. Weekend Read understands Manly hierarchy gave the idea short shrift when it was bounced off them.
They are committed to coach Des Hasler as they give him all the support they can to turn the club around. Morris, meanwhile, faces a huge game in his coaching career against the Sydney Roosters on Saturday night. A win would add strength to his claims for an extension.
A loss would leave him under intense pressure with the club believed to have already made their mind up on his successor. That man is Roosters assistant Craig Fitzgibbon, regarded across the game as the next head coach in waiting.
It is understood Sharks officials have already had an informal conversation with their Roosters counterparts about whether Fitzgibbon would be available given he has another year to run on his deal at the Roosters. They were given every indication that the Roosters would reward his years of service by allowing him to leave to take up a head coaching position.
The Sharks are in pole position to land his prized signature and no shortage of people would have you believe the decision has already been made. Fitzgibbon has a remarkable resume, having been at Trent Robinson’s side during the Roosters recent premiership wins.
He has also been an assistant for NSW, where his work with the Blues has allowed him to build strong relationships with some of the highest-profile figures in the game. He has served an apprenticeship as well as any assistant coach in the game and Roosters insiders insist he is ready to take the next step.
It may yet be at the Sharks, although no decision is likely to be made on Morris’ future for several weeks yet. The coming weeks will be crucial.
