Paul Gallen thinks that Michael Ennis, a teammate who won a premiership with the Sharks in 2016, ought to take over as the NSW Blues’ next coach.
Speaking on 2GB’s Continuous Call Team on Saturday afternoon, Gallen dismissed claims that a more seasoned coach is needed, stating that Ennis would be a great fit because of his ability to inspire a group.
Michael Maguire leaped at the chance to rejoin the NRL coaching ranks with the Broncos, so the Blues started looking for a new coach this week.
Ennis was hired as a specialist coach at Manly this year, but he has experience as an assistant coach at many clubs, including the Eels and Sharks.
Prior to Sunday’s grand final matchup against the Roosters, he, Gallen, and their fellow 2016 premiership-winning colleagues Chad Townsend and Jack Bird were asked to address the club’s NRLW squad on Saturday morning.
Speaking to the playing group that Tony Herman coached, Gallen expressed his admiration for what he saw in Ennis.
“A team needs to be motivated and brought together. “I’ve never seen a better motivator than him,” he remarked.
“He is undoubtedly my partner… He’s arguably one of Cronulla’s best-ever (as a player) signings, if not the best, I can honestly say. He was incredible; he helped me out so much. He inspires teams in an amazing way.”
Josh Morris stated on the same program that Ivan Cleary would make sense as the Blues coach, but he also acknowledged that NRL competitors would try to prevent the appointment because of the information and access it would provide him with the NSW players at other teams.
Billy Slater’s success with the Maroons, according to Gallen, is evidence that coaching expertise isn’t required at the Origin level.
“Everyone says you’re a seasoned coach, but I disagree. He remarked, “I believe you need someone who wants to work hard and who is enthusiastic about the jersey.
Queensland demonstrated this. Billy Slater took over and won his first two series. Never in his life had he coached a game, not even De La Salle under-14s.
You need someone who is driven and eager to work.”
Gallen also thought that eight Origin appearances later, Ennis, would be more than delighted to take the position.
“If he was asked and had the opportunity to, he would and I think he’d do a good job,” he stated.
You require a somebody who is driven, hard-working, and has an excellent work ethic. Both King and Ennis possess that.