Wayne Bennett is keen to get his next coaching appointment wrapped up promptly as he prepares to ramp up negotiations for a South Sydney homecoming.
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The 74-year-old Dolphins coach confirmed on Friday that he would speak in more detail to the Rabbitohs about replacing the recently sacked Jason Demetriou after his side's away clash with North Queensland on Saturday.
In the past Bennett has been courted by multiple clubs when off-contract. That is not the case at this point with Souths the only current vacancy in 2025 for a head coach.
While he said he was "not in a rush" he does not want his future to be a distraction for his players in their finals quest.
"I told the players what was going on because I knew it doesn't work, not talking," he said.
"They have all come from other clubs here so they all understand. I want to get it out of the road as quick as I can so we can all move on and there is no more discussion about it.
"We will see where it goes. It could happen tomorrow. I just have to make sure I am comfortable with what I am doing and (Souths) are comfortable with me. We need to talk."
Bennett's wish aligns with that of Rabbitohs CEO Blake Solly who said this week he hoped to get the next coach appointed "in weeks not months".
It has been reported that Bennett reached out via a third party to Parramatta, where head coach Brad Arthur is under pressure after an underwhelming start to the season.
"I don't know anything about Parramatta. I don't know where that is coming from," Bennett said.
Bennett said his desire to continue coaching in the NRL was still strong.
"If I didn't think I had something to offer ... I wouldn't do it. That's not the case with me," he said.
"I would rather be doing something and making a contribution. I care about the game enormously and its people. If I can go and help a club and make them better then that is what motivates me and drives me.
"(Coaching) gives me something to do. I don't want to sit at home and twiddle my thumbs and bore myself to death."
Australian Associated Press
