Future of Daley at Blues still a mystery

LAURIE Daley has given the strongest indication yet that he will stand down as NSW coach after tonight’s Origin decider.

Daley and Queensland rival Kevin Walters have been encouraged to continue by their respective captains.

But Daley in particular has been coy about his future and could be entering his last game.

Blues captain Boyd Cordner said he had never met a “more passionate man who’s worn the blue jersey” and hoped Daley would continue.

“I think it’s (rubber stamped) for him to have this job,” Cordner said.

“He wears his heart on his sleeve and for me personally, he’s been unreal for my development as a player at clubland and also in the Origin arena too, so I’d love to see him back coaching next year.”

While appreciating Cordner’s words, Daley’s sole concern was preparing for tonight.

“That’s great to hear it from someone like Boyd but it’s not my issue,” he said. “I just want to make sure I get this team prepared as well as I can.

“I just want to know that this team has been set up in the right way that we can have success going forward.

“When you do that, you know you’ve done your job.”

Pushed on the issue though, Daley said he may give a clue on his future after the match.

“I’m worried about tomorrow night,” Daley said after yesterday’s captain’s run at Cbus Super Stadium. “Once tomorrow night rolls around you may hear something.”

Unlike Daley, Walters is contracted for next year and while he has voiced an interest in becoming a regular NRL coach, Maroons captain Cameron Smith has encouraged the Queensland Rugby League to extend his tenure.