Bulldogs premiership winner takes the reins

CANTERBURY have appointed Michael Potter as interim head coach until the end of the season in the wake of Trent Barrett’s sudden departure.

Potter, who was coaching NSW Cup side Mounties – one of the Bulldogs’ feeder clubs – will move into the role immediately, the club announced on Wednesday morning.

Potter played fullback in the Bulldogs’ premiership-winning 1984 and 1985 teams.

He has held head coaching roles with the Catalan Dragons (2006-08), St Helens (2009-10), Bradford Bulls (2011-12) and the Wests Tigers (2013-14).

“It is great to have a genuine legend returning to the club. Michael has extensive experience in the game and will bring a new voice and new ideas to our players,” Bulldogs general manager of football, Phil Gould, said.

“We really appreciate Michael stepping up to help our club at this time.”

Potter will take charge of the Bulldogs in Friday evening’s clash with 15th-placed Wests Tigers, who on Tuesday completed the shock signing of Canterbury outside back Brent Naden. Naden is expected to line up against his former teammates.