The statement smacks of preparation for a further statement in a few weeks time stating how disappointed the club is to learn that Furner will not be coming and he has reneged on his deal.

Whether or not the club has spoke to Furner prior to issuing this statement remains to be seen but in my opinion there should have been one of two things happen. Either a concrete quote direct from Furner confirming he is Leeds coach for 2019 or confirmation from the club that he is to take the reigns at Souths and wont be coming.

The problem weve got now, and the problem weve always got is were again scrabbling about playing second fiddle to the NRL because until Brisbane name their coach for 2020, until Benett decides what he is doing and until Seibold decides whether or not to extend with Souths were going to be left in limbo 2 weeks out of pre season!

Not happy!

This "domino" situation is crazy. I'd like to think Leeds would and could source a good alternative if Furner gives backword - but really a head coach isn't a carefree/reckless player. In coach world, your word really should count for something, and you should respect commitments.

Does look similar to the early stages of the Segeyaro fiasco but bear in mind it is the middle of the night in Oz. A statement from Furner either positive or not is unlikely to come until tomorrow morning

I saw a news report this morning from Oz where the reporter, after speaking to him, quoted Furner as saying "Theres a bit happening".


Read in to that what you will but wouldnt it have been better to say, "Im off to Leeds so it doesnt concern me"

McDermott is available...

Hetherington has the contract so he knows what it contains

Three possible options

No get out clause
Yes a get out clause
A clause has been worded badly and he may have a get out clause.

If it's number one well done
If it's number two and airtight well done
If it's number three time to get your coat GH

Most sports contracts do involve a get out clause if a better offer comes along, usually invlving compensation to the club losing the 'asset'.

Appreciate time difference etc but this story broke at about 6AM this morning which makes it evening in Aus so if it's a quick and easy "there's nothing to it" from Furner then it's job done. I guess it hasn't been quite that simple...

Yes it would.
If the "there's a bit happening " quote is accurate it would suggest he wants to stay in Aus. If so, let him go asap and start the search for a replacement.
If this is true Sinfield must feel badly let down by Furner. When he announced his appointment he said how they had always stayed in touch since he was here as a player and how Furner was one of the first to congratulate him on returning to Leeds.

Whether there is a get out clause or not is immaterial imo. If he doesn't want to come, then release him from the contract.

100% this.

Agreed, the message from GH on the club site does smack a little of emotional blackmail to get him to stick with us.

Anyone, coach, player or staff who doesn't want to be here should be released as soon as they show that desire and if appropriate the fans should be informed why they wanted to leave.

If the worst happens and Furner reneges were in a right mess. He's been central in recruiting Hurrell (where does this leave him?) and apparently is right in the midst of all our player negotiations in Oz. Could be a disaster this.

Yes, we need this sorting asap, he either commits to us within 24-48 hours or we actively find a replacement.or hopefully that is what GH has told furner...

Hurrell will still be on his way over as he’s contracted to Leeds.

As is Furner?