Why Mick Potter should be reluctant to return as full-time NRL coach

When Mick Potter is asked about a full-time return to NRL coaching, he comes across as a jilted lover, wary of being tempted back into the arms of an old flame.

Been there, been burned before, not going back for more punishment.

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Canterbury's astonishing 34-4 demolition of Parramatta on Monday has some suggesting the Dogs' search for a new coach is over.

That Potter is the answer to all their problems and it's pointless chasing Cameron Ciraldo or Michael Maguire or whoever else Gus Gould has in his phone contacts under 'UC' for Unemployed Coaches.

It's a natural leap to make.

Potter is well liked by his players, respected and can coach.

He's a Bulldogs great and knows what makes the club tick.

He has a quiet, calming assurance and is devoid of ego.

But as he nears 60, does he really need the aggravation and stress?

Does he need Gus constantly looking over his shoulder, the relentless media scrutiny, the 24-7 obsession.

You could argue Potter is making a half-decent fist of the job at the moment because he is not chasing the job full-time.

He knows the minute you remove 'interim' from his title, the gloves will be off.

Mick Potter enjoying life without full-time coaching

Unlike Brett Kimmorley, who needs wins at Wests Tigers to build his case, Potter is not kept awake by win-loss ratios.

He appears to have little interest in diving back into the NRL coaching cesspit after being spat out by the Tigers in 2014.

Life's pretty good without it.

Asked after Monday's victory win whether he coveted the job, Potter replied: "If you win a game it (coaching NRL) seems a lot more relevant to you.

"It’s a tough job and you've got to be ready and have a lot of energy and back-up every week and take adversity in your stride.

"It does wear you down…and I like playing tennis in my spare time."

Even the persuasive Gus might not be able to match three gentle sets followed by a couple at the local.

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