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Andrew Johns says no to NSW coaching job

NSW legend Andrew Johns has addressed speculation he could take over as head coach of the Blues in State of Origin.

Johns was asked on Sunday whether he'd consider the job should it become available.

"No," he said strongly. "I've seen what it does, especially this series, with the pressure on Laurie Daley but also (Queensland coach) Kevin Walters was under, I don't need that in my life."

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Johns did however endorse fellow candidate Brad Fittler for the job.

Daley is happy to stay commentating. Image: Getty
Daley is happy to stay commentating. Image: Getty

"If Laurie was not to continue, I think Brad Fittler served his apprenticeship with (NSW) City Country. He's had great success with the City team, and I think he'd be ready to step in."

Fittler refused to comment on his availability until Daley's future was decided but, significantly, didn't rule out the possibility.

"At the moment there's no job and Laurie Daley is a really good mate of mine. I pay him all the respect," Fittler said.

Joey in his heyday. Image: Getty
Joey in his heyday. Image: Getty

"Obviously there's a decision either he's making or the league's making and until that happens, nothing will be said or considered."

Current coach Laurie Daley remained coy on his future on Thursday, but said he would make an announcement in "the next couple of weeks" following the Blues series loss to Queensland.

However he has given every indication the 2017 series will be his last.

Off contract at the end of the season, Daley spoke with the NSW players after the game and told them of his decision.

"They're a good group to work with and I'm sure they've all got long careers in Origin," he said.

Wednesday's 22-6 series-decider loss to Queensland made Daley the first NSW coach to lose four series.

Fittler would likely be the front runner to replace Daley, given his experience as NSW City coach, junior age mentor and two previous seasons with the Sydney Roosters.

Former Origin mentor Tommy Raudonikis has also boldly declared he can do the job.

Raudonikis was speaking on Brisbane's 4BC program about the Maroons' series-clinching victory over the Blues in Wednesday night's Origin decider.

The tough-talking NSW great, who's never one to mince words, said the blame for Blues' defeat had to rest firmly on coach Daley's shoulders.

"Mate, he's got to go," Raudonikis fumed.

"I thought, mate, he didn't prepare those players well, and I thought after that first win, mate ... I just think they didn't grab them by the throat.

"I'm going to put in for it. If I couldn't do what Laurie Daley did, send me anywhere.

"I'm dead serious. I've coached State of Origin."

Raudonikis engineered a 2-1 series win for NSW in his first year as Blues coach.

with AAP