Axed Sydney Roosters coach Brad Fittler has ruled out any future involvement with the club beyond this season.
Fittler was told on Saturday his contract with the Roosters would not be renewed when it expires at the end of the 2009 NRL campaign.
Newcastle's Brian Smith is set to take
over at the Bondi-based club on a four-year deal.
Fittler had been under pressure to keep his job following a dismal year on and off the field - the Roosters languishing in last spot on the ladder and the club constantly in the headlines thanks to a spate of alcohol-related incidents.
But despite being one of the club's favourite sons following a glittering playing career with the tri-colours, Fittler ruled out any future involvement with the Roosters.
"There'll be no role at the Roosters," Fittler said yesterday. "As of other stuff, I've only known for a day so I'll most probably chill out at the end of the season and look at my options.
"I'll definitely coach in some manner. There's no doubt about that - I really enjoyed it."
Former Roosters coach Phil Gould - who is still well entrenched with the inner workings at the club - said he understood Smith was keen to keep Fittler at the club.
"He [Smith] indicated to me that he'd like Brad to remain on in some capacity and I hope in time Brad sees fit to do that," Gould said.
"I think Brian could offer him a lot in the way of experience and education.
"I think it's a great coup for the club ... they've acquired a great coach. I've always been a big admirer of Brian Smith and I think he's the right man for the job."
- AAP
