Banned coach Flanagan gets gig with Sharks for three extra years

RUGBY LEAGUE: The re-signing of suspended coach Shane Flanagan to a new three-year deal from 2015 could help Cronulla fend off rival NRL and rugby union bids for boom forward Andrew Fifita.

The 115kg prop was heading to Canterbury next season until the Bulldogs tore up his fouryear, $3.4 million contract this week, angry with his comments that he would inevitably end up playing rugby union.

South Sydney is reportedly still interested in the 24-yearold forward, while the Sharks are also set to renew contract extension talks.

Cronulla yesterday backed Flanagan as its future coach despite the NRL banning him for 12 months for his role in the ASADA supplements inquiry, after which he was found by the league of having failed in his duty of care to his players in 2011. “It is an important signing for the club – Shane will play a pivotal role in the development of the football operations and in the delivery of sustained and continued success at the Sharks, both on and off the field,” club chief executive Steve Noyce said.

Skipper Paul Gallen said Flanagan, who steered the club to the NRL finals last season, was highly respected by everyone at the club and had the full support of the players.

Flanagan could fill in some of his NRL suspension by coaching in the UK Super League.