Fittler to be announced as NSW coach on Friday

Brad Fittler has beaten out former South Sydney coach Michael Maguire in the race to coach the NSW Blues, 7 News Sydney's Liam Cox understands.

The one-time Sydney Roosters coach and State of Origin legend will be officially announced on Friday following a NSWRL board meeting.

Earlier on Thursday, Laurie Daley backed Fittler to replace him with gusto given his playing experience.

Daley remains close to both men, having played with Maguire in Canberra and playing in a number of representative teams alongside Fittler during the 1990s.

And while he was confident either could do the job, he said Fittler's 31 games of Origin experience for NSW would provide a definite advantage come next June when Origin hostilities resume.

"I think it does (help) because it's different to any other game," Daley said at the launch of the Festival of Indigenous Rugby League on Thursday.

"It's a really big build-up. It's like three grand finals in six weeks and the rollercoaster you have is very emotional.

"If you don't understand it and you get caught up in it you can lose sight and focus."

Aside from Fittler's stellar Origin experience, the other major difference between the pair is their differing approaches to coaching.

Fittler has been noted for his relaxed style in City Origin camps and with Lebanon for this year's World Cup.

He has also spoken about his desire to lead the next generation of Blues, which is likely to include young stars such as the Trbojevic brothers and Nathan Cleary.

Meanwhile Maguire was noted as being one of the most intense coaches in the NRL during his time at Souths, as he led them to their drought-breaking 2014 premiership.

But Daley said either style would likely drive NSW to prolonged success, given the determination of the players following 11 series losses in 12 years.

"I think whatever type of coach it is, the players are really good in adapting to different styles and coaches," Daley said.

"They've got a group that are enthusiastic and keen. They are sick of losing and they want to win.

"We couldn't do that this year. It was a great opportunity missed. But they're ready to go and they'll have success."

with AAP