Rein on radar at Titans

GARTH Brennan’s appointment today as Gold Coast coach could prompt a number of Penrith players, including Mitch Rein, to follow him to the Titans.

Brennan’s departure from the Panthers has sparked speculation a number of players from his premiership-winning NSW Intrust Super side could join him on the Gold Coast. The Newcastle-raised coach has built close rapports with a host of Penrith players after guiding the club to a NSW Cup title in 2014 and an under-20s premiership in 2013.

Brennan is a big fan of hooker Mitch Rein, who it was confirmed won’t be at Penrith next season despite having a year to run on his contract.

Panthers CEO Brian Fletcher wasn’t sure where the ex-Country representative would end up, but conceded that he could follow Brennan to the Gold Coast.

“The arrangement was that he (Mitch) will move next year,” Fletcher said.

“I don’t know what Garth has got in mind, maybe he takes him with (to the Gold Coast) or he stays where he is in Sydney.”

Rein’s manager George Mimis is also uncertain where his client will play next season.

Mimis said the No.9 may stand his ground and honour his deal at the Panthers, but he could also move on if an agreement with a rival club was reached.

“We are having active conversations with the Panthers and others,” Mimis said.

“As it stands he has a 2018 Panthers contract but if a mutually satisfactory alternative is reached then that may change.

“But I am not certain as yet and we are reviewing the situation. I can’t provide any certainty at this stage as discussions are still fluid.”

Brennan worked closely with Rein during Penrith’s run to the NSW Cup title this season. He praised the Kiamaborn hooker after he starred in the Panthers’ grand final win over Wyong.

According to Fletcher, Brennan had yet to indicate if he’ll request permission for any Penrith players to join him on the Gold Coast.

“He wouldn’t do that unless he had the blessing from Gus (Phil Gould),” he said.

“The Panthers have been good for him and he has been good for us. There is mutual respect there. He isn’t that type of bloke.”

Fletcher couldn’t be happier to see Brennan land a head coaching gig in the NRL.