LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Former Wests Tigers coach Michael Maguire has received an endorsement from rugby league identity Matty Johns to become the next NSW State of Origin coach.
Brad Fittler stepped down from the role last month, leaving the Blues in search of a new coach.
Despite being offered a one-year extension, Fittler opted to leave.
Several potential candidates have been suggested, including Panthers coach Ivan Cleary, Storm mentor Craig Bellamy, and Canberra's Ricky Stuart.
However, Stuart officially withdrew from consideration to focus on the Raiders.
Blues legend Paul McGregor and former coach Laurie Daley have also been mentioned as potential options.
Johns believes that Maguire would be an excellent choice for the role, citing his ability to make tough decisions.
Maguire is currently the head coach of New Zealand and is working as an assistant coach for Stuart's staff.
Known for his no-nonsense approach, Maguire could bring a much-needed edge to a Blues side that has struggled in recent years.
Queensland has won the last two series under coach Billy Slater, who does not have an NRL club coaching role.
Both Fittler and Daley were not part of an NRL coaching set-up while coaching the Blues, allowing them to focus solely on the state team.
Johns sees no issue with Maguire's role as an assistant coach at the Raiders and believes it could actually be beneficial for the Blues to have someone actively involved in the coaching landscape on a weekly basis.
With Maguire's experience and track record, he could be the right person to lead NSW to success in future State of Origin series.