Rugby league nice Andrew Johns has hit out of critics of Brad Fittler, labelling the media’s criticism of the just lately departed Blues coach as “disappointing” and “extreme”.
Fittler give up as NSW coach on Thursday after it was reported his request for a brand new two-year deal was knocked again by the Blues hierarchy, who had been solely keen to supply a one-year deal.
Johns, who works alongside Fittler at Channel Nine, says he was “blown away” by the news.
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“I was so surprised… shocked. Yeah I couldn’t believe it,” Johns mentioned on his Immortal Behaviour podcast.
“It’s funny how it played out. I thought it was just going to happen (Fittler re-signing). I don’t know what’s happened behind the scenes.
“I think it was (a mistake).”
Fittler wasn’t shy to name out the NSW media all through the collection this yr for not supporting the Blues and making an attempt to drive a wedge between he and the gamers.
Johns believed that it in the end performed a component in Fittler not receiving the two-year extension he was after. He additionally famous the distinction in media protection between NSW and Queensland surrounding Origin.
“Yes (there has been an agenda). Without a doubt. The pile on of Freddy was unwarranted, not only on Freddy but on Greg Alexander as well.
“I thought the pile on was extreme. I thought it was personal and I thought it was out of line.
“It happens every year. The Queensland media don’t pile-on, they don’t hammer people. We eat our own down here so yeah I thought it was disappointing.”
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Fittler was appointed coach of the Blues for the 2017 season. The Blues would win the primary two collection he was on the helm, however departs the place having misplaced three of the previous 4 collection.
Johns mentioned Fittler shouldn’t be blamed for all of the accidents and setbacks the Blues suffered in 2023.
“There were tough (circumstances) this year. All of that isn’t in consideration in the end, you have to look on the name on the trophy and that’s Queensland.
“That Game 1 in Adelaide will probably haunt NSW for a long time. They should have won that one.”
Ricky Stuart, Craig Bellamy and Phil Gould headline the contenders for the vacant place.
However, Johns is extraordinarily assured will probably be Stuart who takes over.
“I reckon Ricky Stuart will get it for sure. There seemed to be a push for him (immediately) after the series this year,” Johns mentioned.
”I feel it’s a $1.01 that Ricky will get it.
“Good luck to Ricky, he’ll do a great job.”
Source web site: www.foxsports.com.au
