Josh Hannay has opened up on being snubbed by Parramatta for the head coaching role, but admits he will “bide his time” and wait for the next opportunity to arise.
After receiving plenty of praise from Craig Fitzgibbon and Billy Slater for his work as an assistant coach in recent years, Hannay was considered a strong candidate but ultimately missed out on the Eels gig.
Jason Ryles was announced by the club on a four-year deal earlier this week, after notifying Hannay and fellow contender Dean Young of their tough decision.
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Speaking on SEN radio, Hannay reflected candidly on the process and turned his focus directly back to working with the Sharks and Maroons.
“I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little bit disappointed,” he said.
“While I’m disappointed, it is minimal because I’m fortunate to be in my position. I’m lucky because I’m not desperate for another job. I’ve already got two great jobs.
Josh Hannay and Billy Slater during State of Origin camp. Getty
“There’ll be another opportunity and the process was a good one. I know that there was nothing in it between myself and Jason Ryles. He deserves his crack, he’s done a wonderful apprenticeship, he’s ready and I know he’ll do a great job.
“I will just bide my time and just wait for the next opportunity to come along.”
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Hannay has previously acted as the interim coach at Cronulla in 2021 and North Queensland in 2020, but was overlooked for the full-time position on both occasions.
Ryles will finish the season with the Melbourne Storm before heading to the Eels in November in a bid to turn the misfiring club around.