NRL: Coaching legend Wayne Bennett looms among Penrith candidates

  • 07/08/2018
Wayne Bennett and Phil Gould
Wayne Bennett and Phil Gould Photo credit: Photosport/AAP

Penrith CEO Brian Fletcher believes legendary NRL coach Wayne Bennett could be a suitable fit, alongside high-profile boss Phil Gould at the Panthers, after the shock late-season sacking of Anthony Griffin.

Fletcher says Bennett, facing an uncertain future at the Broncos, would work well under Gould, who could offer him the chance to take the helm of a ready-made team.

"I'm sure they could work together, I wouldn't see any reason why they couldn't. 

"From a Wayne Bennett point of view, you're not coming to rebuild a side," Fletcher told the Big Sports Breakfast radio show.

Meanwhile, head coaches of rival clubs are among a dozen applicants to put their hands up for the vacant Penrith job.

Gould said the club had a "preferred" replacement in mind to succeed Griffin, but wasn't short of options to fill the post.

"We've already had 12 applications come in overnight from people within the game. Other assistant coaches and even some head coaches from other clubs," Gould told reporters on Tuesday.

AAP