League: Michael Maguire confirmed as Wests Tigers coach

Kiwis coach Michael Maguire has been appointed the new head coach of the Wests Tigers. Photo / Photosport

Wests Tigers have officially announced Kiwis coach Michael Maguire will take the reins of the club in 2019, releasing Ivan Cleary with immediate effect.

The appointment was reported by Australian media earlier in the week as a handshake agreement, with the club confirming the deal this morning.

Tigers chief executive Justin Pascoe said he looked forward to having the "impressive" Maguire join the club in a statement.

"Michael is an impressive individual and I look forward to working closely with him over the coming years," Pascoe said. "In all of our discussions he's been professional and has a clear understanding of where we want to take this club and I'm sure that he's the person to lead us to future success both on and off the field.

"Michael has taken sides to Premierships both in Australia and overseas and I look forward to seeing him take our playing squad to the next level," he said.

Maguire was given full backing by New Zealand Rugby League to take on the role. NZRL chief executive Greg Peters said he had no issues with Maguire holding dual roles with the Kiwis and the NRL side.

"We were aware when we appointed Michael that this was the likely outcome," said Peters.

"He made it clear to us from the outset that he wanted to coach in the NRL again as well as coach the Kiwis. He wants to develop a winning culture that takes us to the World Cup.

"We congratulate Madge on his appointment. He knows we have confidence in him being able to continue his vital role with the Kiwis in the current series against England and in the years to come."

Cleary is now expected to join son Nathan at the Penrith Panthers, who were yet to fill their vacant head coaching role.

If appointed, it will be the second time Cleary has taken the reins at the foot of the mountains. He was sacked by the club at the end of the 2015 season with the Panthers finishing 11th on the ladder just two points off the wooden spoon.