New South Wales State of Origin coach Laurie Daley said he is in good health as speculation continues over his future, following reports he is set to step down due to a health scare.
On Tuesday News Corp reported that one of the reasons why Daley is stepping down as NSW coach is due to a health scare.
However, the 56-year-old has dismissed suggestions there is a serious issue with his health.
“I haven’t made any announcement yet, and when I’m ready to say something I will,” Daley said on Big Sports Breakfast.
“But in terms of my health, my health is good. I’m OK. So there’s no reason to suggest that I’m crook.”
The comments came after former Queensland captain Paul Vautin claimed Daley had already told him he would not return as Blues coach, after after leading the team to a series victory earlier this month.
“He told me the other day he’s not doing it,” Vautin said on the Fanatics podcast.
“I was really happy. He is one of the champions on earth as a person. Great fella and to see him win that and virtually go like this (up yours) to all his critics.”
Daley has not publicly confirmed whether he will remain in the role, saying that he will announce his decision when he is ready.
Nine reporter Danny Weidler said Daley is yet to formally notify NSW Rugby League officials of his plans, but an announcement is expected soon.
“It would be an absolute shock if he actually was gonna coach NSW next year, everybody is expecting Laurie Daley to quit,” Weidler told Nine.
Daley came under significant scrutiny throughout this year’s State of Origin series before the Blues produced a dominant performance in the decider to seal the series in Queensland.
In the days after the victory, Daley said he wanted to give his players time to enjoy the achievement before discussing his future.
“I think I just wanna let it all settle in and settle down and let the players enjoy what they’ve been able to achieve,” he told Nine.
“A decision will come in the coming weeks, but I’m certainly happy with the decision I’ve made and what happens next.”
Daley also acknowledged the demands of coaching at Origin level, saying the role comes with intense scrutiny and suggesting there were several experienced candidates capable of taking over.
He praised members of his coaching staff, including Matt King, Boyd Cordner and Brett White, as well as other coaches with NRL experience.
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