New Wests Tigers coach Ivan Cleary has denied the position is a poisoned chalice as he begins what shapes as a long, arduous rebuild.
Cleary was on Monday announced as the club's fourth NRL head coach since 2013 following the sacking of Jason Taylor a fortnight ago.
Cleary's former Penrith boss Phil Gould last week questioned whether the Tigers job was too big as the joint venture seek to shrug off a sustained period of instability, qualify for the finals for the first time in four years and retain a swathe of off-contract stars.
After previous coaches Tim Sheens, Mick Potter and Taylor were all sacked over the past five years, Gould said the job may be too great for Cleary.
As well, other jobs look set to come up over the next 12 months with a number of coaches under pressure to turn their ships around.
By taking the Tigers job, Cleary has ruled himself out of contention for what might be a safer gig.
However the 46-year-old said he had no reservations about taking over and was confident of turning the Tigers into a successful venture.
"During my immediate discussions with the board, the first thing I noticed was there was complete unity," Cleary said.
"And I was really confident about the future of the Wests Tigers, I was confident that the board and management were very clear that they were 100 per cent committed to the best possible future for this club.
"I see certainly potential in the playing ranks, it's a huge brand, it can really develop and prosper in the future."
Cleary was in January announced as Lebanon coach for the end-of-year World Cup.
He said would potentially have to relinquish the position so he could focus on the Tigers.
Share
