KEV OPTS OUT

Walters prefers Maroons but Maguire eyes Titans coach job

QUEENSLAND coach Kevin Walters is likely to extend his Origin contract this week as Michael Maguire firms as an option for the Gold Coast.

Walters was understood to have been interested in the Titans job a fortnight ago after the sacking of Neil Henry.

But he has sought the counsel of several respected figures who have warned him about the perils of the job.

He is tipped to decide he’ll stay as Maroons coach for the next three seasons.

Maguire has another year to go on his contract at the Rabbitohs but there is a feeling his journey there has run its course.

Souths have been in decline since their 2014 premiership win and the club may decide that if a rival club was interested in him a move may be beneficial for both Maguire and the Rabbitohs

The Titans are in the process of forming a committee that will form a shortlist likely to include Maguire and perhaps Walters, if they feel they can lure him away from his Queensland job.

The Rabbitohs believe Maguire, who manages himself, has not been approached by the Titans but that could change once the committee and shortlist are formed.

It cannot be assumed the Titans could afford Maguire who is on $800,000 a year at Souths, double the amount paid to Henry.

Test captain Cameron Smith and fullback Billy Slater, who have worked with Walters with Queensland and during his stint as an assistant coach at the Melbourne Storm, have subtly expressed their hope he stays with Queensland.

“Kevvie is a great coach,’’ Smith said. “I have been lucky enough to have him as an assistant in Melbourne and now with Queensland.

“He has done a great job with both teams I have been involved with. It is his decision.

“He would be great if he went to the Titans but why would he step away from Queensland?” He is doing a great job there.’’

Slater felt Walters could be a success at the Titans but added: “Would you want to leave what he has at the Maroons?

Terry Matterson, an assistant coach to Henry, is also interested in the Titans job and is likely to make the shortlist.