NRL: Hasler to assume Bulldogs role this week

Sacked Manly coach Des Hasler will join the Bulldogs a season earlier than expected. Photo / Getty Images

Canterbury have confirmed former Manly premiership-winning coach Des Hasler will assume his role at the Bulldogs this week.

Hasler could link with the Bulldogs as soon as Monday, but is more likely to start in a full-time capacity with the squad later in the week.

The 50-year-old was sacked by Manly on Friday over his alleged role in the poaching of backroom staff to join him at Canterbury.

That will allow him to join the Bulldogs, with whom he'd signed a four-year deal starting in 2013, a season earlier than expected.

That contract remains in place as a four-year deal commencing this week, with Jim Dymock relinquishing his role as Bulldogs head coach to take up a role as Hasler's assistant.

Hasler has also reportedly called off a threat to take legal action against the Sea Eagles over his sacking, telling a Sunday newspaper he was satisfied because the decision will help fast-track his Bulldogs move.

"Obviously it came as a great surprise to me to be stood down midweek and then terminated on Friday when I had been gearing up with my staff for a shot at a back-to-back NRL campaigns," Hasler told the Sunday Telegraph.

"Thankfully the uncertainty this created in my mind has been settled this morning with my immediate appointment at the Bulldogs.

"Obviously, as a result, there will be no need for any legal action regarding my Manly contract that, thankfully, will negate any more negative press about the club, staff or players.

"There has been a lot of emotion expressed by a lot of people in the last few days. I completely understand the passion and I, too, have had a wonderful period of my life as player and coach at the Manly club. I want to move on with memories of our successes together, not negative headlines.

"I am looking forward to integrating immediately into the Bulldogs' pre-season plans and working with the organisation. I wish the Manly players and Geoff Toovey all the best with 2012 and beyond."

- AAP