ocdstephen:ArthurClues:
From a Perth point of view I think it would be a big mistake to pass on Arthur. I'm sure he'd do a great job. From a Leeds point of view, with 2nd half of the season fast approaching, it's time we got a decision out of him. Don't think we can afford him waiting out a NRL coach to be sacked and then leaving us at the end of the season. If he truly wants away better to make a decision in the next couple of weeks in order to give him (BA) the opportunity to focus on getting us to peak for the playoffs without the press speculation, and Blease to execute whatever contingency plan he no doubt has up his sleeve.
BA seemed to bristle when James Deighton asked him about the McNamara rumours and if he's spoken with Perth. He said he'd heard nothing of the McNamara rumours and he was still coach, "unless you want me out." Did concede he'd spoken to Perth "at some point." Not sure what to make of it, but hope that if he's overlooked for the Perth job, he'll stay another year. I think we're waiting on the Perth decision, which was thought would be announced this week. If BA is overlooked, I think we'll get a pretty swift decision from him either way.
I honestly think he's at war with himself over this decision and it comes across in his grumpiness with the press when asked the envitable questions. He must know that he'll never gave another job where he's more highly regarded by the club and loved by the fanbase. He must see how far the team has come under his stewardship, and there must be a part of him that wants to finish the job. If he were to win silverware with us he'd be right up there with Murray in terms of legendary coaches. That still means something even when you've come from the NRL. The idea that somebody might be doing "his job" next year clearly touches a nerve. Ultimately if Perth say yes he'll go, but if they don't I think there is a strong chance he'll stay. Let’s hope he does.
