Fittler makes sudden call to quit as NSW coach

Brad Fittler has quit as coach of the NSW Blues just days after pitching to the NSWRL board in a bid to receive a new contract.

Fittler was offered an extension to remain in the role after meeting NSWRL bosses last week, but on Thursday he told them he was walking out on the job.

The decision also comes just days after the prospect arose of Fittler and Phil Gould linking up in an official capacity, which Gould addressed on Nine's 100% Footy on Monday.

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Gould is the most powerful figure in rugby league, so the thought of him taking on a Blues role may have spooked NSWRL bosses.

Raiders coach Ricky Stuart and Storm mentor Craig Bellamy are among the candidates to replace Fittler.

"The board understands and respects his decision," said NSWRL chairman Paul Conlon.

"Freddy was a legend as a player and returned to coach the team at a time when his state needed him.

"He enjoyed immediate success and his series win in 2021, which included record scorelines in Townsville and Brisbane, will go down in NSW Blues history.

"He also contributed through other programs including his Hogs motorcycle rides in regional NSW which played a big part in uniting the state.

"He holds a special place in NSW rugby league history."

Fittler said he "loved doing the job" and would "always love NSW".

Since taking on the job in 2018, Fittler won three series and lost three. He lost the last two series 2-1, with Billy Slater becoming Queensland coach and coming up trumps in consecutive years.

The NSW coaching staff has changed enormously since the completion of this year's series, with Greg Alexander, Paul McGregor, Andrew Johns and Danny Buderus all stepping down.

Gould explained on 100% Footy how talk of he and Fittler combining forces at the Blues had come about.

"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 [and] that he would like me to get involved with the Blues," Gould said.

"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 [series] in a row. You can't go on like that — they have to get a win. He needs a win."