NSW coach Brad Fittler has refused to shut down speculation he may eventually end up at the Bulldogs, saying he leaves “every door ajar”.
The Bulldogs’ season has sunk further following Trent Barrett’s sacking with the club going down 30-18 to Penrith on Friday night.
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Belmore officials are on the lookout for a new coach and Fittler’s close relationship with general manager Phil Gould has the three-time Origin-winning coach as a potential fit for the job despite his media obligations with Nine and his current position with NSW.
Penrith assistant Cameron Ciraldo is reportedly at the top of the wish list for the Bulldogs, with Gould spending time with the assistant during his time at the Panthers.
Speaking to The Sydney Morning Herald, Fittler refused to rule himself out of coaching the Bulldogs at some point, despite having another year left on his contract with NSW and Nine.
“I will never, ever rule out anything,” Fittler told the Herald.
“But right now, had you asked me as a kid to picture what my two best jobs would be, one would be commentating on rugby league, and the other would be coaching Origin. I’m now doing both those jobs.
“There will be nothing done while I’m doing these two jobs.”
Fittler added: “I leave every door ajar.”
It’s understood Fittler would change his tune if he was tabled an “offer to good to refuse” but for now he’s content with trying to claim his fourth State of Origin series as coach of the Blues.
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