Phil Gould confirmed he's been approached by NSW coach Brad Fittler to replace Greg Alexander as an advisor on a revamped staff.
Fittler will meet the NSWRL board on Wednesday, with the former Blues captain to pitch his vision for the 2024 series, with NSW bosses to make a call on whether he will return to the head coach position after losing the past two series to coaching rookie Billy Slater.
Fittler, who is currently off-contract, is reportedly set to earn a 12-month coaching extension and pitched Gould's involvement to the NSWRL board. His meeting on Wednesday is to provide more clarity to the board about his support staff.
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Paul McGregor, Danny Buderus and Alexander have all stood down from their respective roles.
Gould, one of the most successful coaches in Origin history, revealed Fittler had spoken to him about a paid position on his staff, although he insisted he wasn't looking for a "paid job".
"He has never really asked for much in his life and he rang me last week to say Greg Alexander was stepping down from his role, that he would like me to get involved with the Blues," Gould said on Nine's 100% Footy on Monday night.
"I think it is only simply to talk to him and whatever he needs. He really didn't explain to me what he wants me to do.
"I am certainly not chasing a job, I am not looking for a job. He was talking about a paid position — I am certainly not chasing a paid position with NSW Rugby League.
"He is yet to be appointed, that comes this week. He spoke to me about his plans for other people he is going to bring into the coaching staff and inner sanctum around Origin.
"It is important for the Blues because they have lost two in a row. You can't go on like that — they have to get a win. He needs a win."
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Gould revealed Fittler was pushing for at least another two years at the helm of the Blues but conceded he may not get his way.
"I think it will come down more to tenure," Gould said.
"I don't think there is any doubt Brad Fittler will probably be appointed but for how long. I think he was looking for a couple of years.
"They have lost two in a row. It will be hard to keep your job if you have lost three in a row. That is the nature of the beast.
"I don't think he deserves to lose the job after what he has done. But it is certainly an important year coming up for them.
"I think there'll be a more collective effort go into it this year. Some of the names he's spoken about getting involved sound very promising to me."
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