Overview

• On July 14 the board green-lit a contract payout that will allow O’Brien to exit at the end of the season.
• O’Brien has stated he remains fully committed to the Knights and will coach until he is formally replaced.
• Defensive coach Brian McDermott is emerging as a left-field candidate after helping Newcastle rank sixth in defence.
• Blake Green, Josh Hannay, Willie Peters and Brad Arthur are also under consideration for the senior role.
• Club figures are calling for a renewed focus on local junior development and a clear playing identity to address Newcastle’s league-worst attack.