Former NSW coach Brad Fittler walked away from the role after it was only offered to him on a part-time basis. However,Maguire is happy to accept the position in its newly condensed format.

While the NSWRL is content for Maguire to hold those positions simultaneously,Canberra has yet to decide on whether it’s appropriate for him to also continue as an assistant to Ricky Stuart. The Raiders board will discuss the matter before deciding whether a replacement is required.

NZRL chief executive Greg Peters said a position had not yet been formed on the appropriateness of Maguire holding both roles.

“We haven’t considered that and won’t do so until the conclusion of the Kiwis’ campaign,” Peters said.

“Our 100 per cent focus is on the Kiwis,as is Michael’s at the moment.”

Maguire has yet to assemble or inform the NSWRL of his intended support staff given his Kiwis focus.

‘I actually think it’s an advantage to be across what’s happening at club and international level.’

Michael Maguire

NSWRL chairman Paul Conlon confirmed that Maguire is the preferred candidate to lead the Blues but further discussions were on hold until his commitments with New Zealand during the Pacific Championships were over.

“His sole focus is on preparing[New Zealand] for the upcoming three Test matches. In fact,that is exactly the quality that attracted us to him for the coaching role,” Conlon said. “He has made a long-term commitment to New Zealand Rugby League and we wish him all the best for the upcoming Test matches.”

Maguire’s immediate focus is installing a Kiwis captain to replace Jesse Bromwich,who has retired from representative football. Panthers prop James Fisher-Harris has emerged as the leading contender and told this masthead last month he would relish the opportunity.

“It would mean a lot,” Fisher-Harris said at the time. “I got to captain one game last year versus Jamaica and it was pretty special for me and my family.

“I would definitely put my hand up. I’m not the perfect speaker or anything like that,but if the team needs me to be captain,I’ll do it. I’ve got to back myself and lead the way I do. I think[leading through actions rather than words] is my strength.

“Kiwis is very special to me,to be honest. I haven’t had much opportunity to play due to injuries and Covid and stuff like that. I’ll take it with both hands and do what I can to put the jersey in a better place.”

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