IF NOT FLANAGAN IN THE SHIRE, THEN WHO?

TRENT BARRETT

Is still technically employed by Manly until next July as their standoff over a financial payout continues. That could all change if Barrett and the Sharks decide to chat. Barrett, who played the final two years of his career in the Shire, is still regarded as a promising coach despite taking the Sea Eagles to the finals just once in three years, as well as the ongoing drama over his ultimate exit. Both Barrett’s manager and Cronulla have denied any dialogue has begun.

STEVE PRICE

The former St George Illawarra coach spent three years as Flanagan’s right-hand man, including their maiden premiership in 2016, before taking the job at Warrington in the UK where he almost broke a 63-year title drought. The Wolves went from ninth to fourth under his watch, before falling to Wigan in the Super League final. Price has a two-year deal with the club.

JIM DYMOCK/JOHN MORRIS

The current Sharks assistants have predictably garnered the support of the playing group, however skipper Paul Gallen on Thursday admitted the premiership-ready roster needs a “boss”. While Morris is largely new to the coaching caper, Dymock has been an assistant for over ten years. He was interim head coach of Canterbury for 11 games in 2011 following the sacking of Kevin Moore, winning five matches.

ANTHONY GRIFFIN

Sensationally sacked by Penrith in August, despite being on his way to leading the club to a third straight finals appearance in three years. With almost 200 NRL games under his belt – winning 55 per cent of them – Griffin is easily the most experienced coach on the market. However he recently took up a consultancy role with the NSW Waratahs.