Coaching comeback on Henry’s agenda

NEIL Henry has put his hand up to make a coaching return to the NRL.

The former Canberra, North Queensland and Gold Coast mentor will make his senior coaching comeback next week when he leads the Junior Kangaroos side against New Zealand.

While Henry is in PNG as part of the PM’s XIII coaching staff – which will feature a handful of Junior Kangaroos players – he still harbours a desire to return to the NRL.

“We will wait and see,” Henry said. “There are a number of coaches out there who don’t have jobs.

“Head coaching jobs can be quite elusive. With only 16 teams, it can be and has been a very volatile environment.

“You learn as you go. You’re forever learning in coaching. You’d like to think when you go back you’d be a better coach than you were previously because you have time to sit back and reflect on things you might have done better and things you’ve reinforced, your philosophy around coaching and sticking to those things as well regarding what works and man management.

“It’s important to have a good network of people around you. It’s a big job and you need good staff around you.”

Manly remain on the lookout for a new coach following Michael Maguire’s decision to opt against joining the Sea Eagles. Henry has been linked to the Manly job but has distanced himself from having any formal discussions.

“I haven’t spoken to any clubs in any serious capacity at all,” Henry said. “I don’t have a manager so I’m not out there.

“You just have to wait and see what’s happening. In the meantime being involved with the Junior Kangaroos and the PM’s XIII is rewarding.”

Since being axed by the Titans last year Henry has spent time working with the NRL and commentating on Fox League.