Bennett possible coaching candidate to link again with Dragons

DRAGONS premiership coach Wayne Bennett could be headed back to the red-and-whites after his replacement Steve Price was axed from the top job yesterday.

Chief executive Peter Doust said six losses in the past seven games was not acceptable, given the club’s strengthened roster this season. “Unfortunately team performance and results have not met the required standards, particularly this season, despite a refresh of performance management strategies and structure at the end of last year, and a significant change to the playing roster,” Doust said.

Former club champion and assistant coach Paul McGregor will be the interim coach for the remainder of the season.

Speculation has already started over who will be the long-term coach from next season, with Tim Sheens, Neil Henry, NSW mentor Laurie Daley and Bennett all mentioned as potential candidates.

Bennett could be the No.1 option with doubts emerging whether he will see out the season at the Knights after mining magnate Nathan Tinkler handed back ownership of the club last week.